Training Holiday?

Well, Friday was a Day without duties assigned, which we called "in the day" a training holiday. It meant that commanders are able to repay soldiers and their families for their long and laborous duties by excusing them from duty on the Friday when the following Monday is a Federal Holiday. I found that it was a good day for my work. I was able to visit several places on post where soldiers frequent and counseled with a fine young couple who were having adjustment difficulties after the soldier's 13 months in Afganistan. I was honored to be the one who was there for them. This is what keeps me coming back to working with soldiers. They are tireless at work and when deployed and they need some help along the way sometimes.

Although with greater intensity perhaps, this is not unlike the rest of us. Sometimes the pressures of our lives make obvious some areas in our marriages that need attention. Finding a marriage and family therapist is just the right move. It does not have to take long and will help for a long time. Make the move to get back on the right track for your marriage and family life to thrive. My pleasure. Dr. D.

In Memory

I had the marvelous experience to be here at Ft Campbell, KY, for the monthly Memorical Service/Ceremony for those of the 101st Division who died in Iraq and Afganistan. It was so moving and soul stirring. Following the service, for myself and on your behalf, I went to the altar to pay respects to those who had fallen in combat. I thanked them, standing there in total silence though many people were in the room. The two soldiers' photos were there with the M-16 rifle standing between the boots and adorned by the empty helmet. Thank God for those who are dedicated to take such risks.

It reminds me that there are also sacrifices that folks make in order to make a relationship successful. It can be very satisfying to give of one's self to make a relationship thrive. I think we all do this everyday, but don't count them. Think of the ways you do or could give of yourself for others, especially those you love. Until next time, Dr. D.

Getting Colder

Spending Tuesday getting aclimated to this installation and her mission. Big place. Almost all deployed soldiers have returned. Spending today learning administrative procedures and installation familiarization. Found Army Community Services and have been looking for the Chaplain Family Life Center. As to the weather? Today isn't so bad, but it is expected to be in the single digits Thursday night and Friday may not warm up to 20 degrees. But my heart is warm.

Just a thought. Relationships go through a similar process of warmth and cold. It is important to know that when things cool off it may not mean there is a problem at all. It could mean that often couples and families need time to "chill" and to regroup. We do that instinctly by pulling back a bit without having to announce it to anyone. Just always keep in mind that it will warm up again. Just like the seasons our relationships go through phases of closeness and distance. Just thinking. Dr. D.

Boots on the Ground

Now arrived at Ft Campbell, KY, home of the Screamin' Eagles. At dinner in a local buffet, I noticed how young soldiers are. Where has the time gone? Young men and women with small children. They are the ones who are making the sacrifices, as usual. I envy their youth and vitality. It is wonderful to watch them. On the down side, I'll be back to 0730 mornings and the first time in years I will experience a few days with the high temperature in the teens. Yes, the HIGH temp! I'll sleep a bit restlessly tonight wanting to be ready to help soldiers and their families as they endure the hardships of separation and reunion. For these days it remains Grace Above All. Dr. D.