My ancient ancestors coined the adage, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” I use pictures to enhance my blog. However, when I create my blog, I write first. Once the writing is complete I search for a picture to complement the composition. This time I had to reverse the process.
When I found this image on the web, I paused. It made linger, looked deeply and ponder at what I saw. A score of questions raced through my mind. All the while, my heart was feeling what this photograph captured.
I see a picture of a reunion. It is written all over her face. My mind began to fill in the blanks.
It is the mother of a child left at home while she served our country on a tour of duty. This soldier-mother in camo fatigues tells of sacrificial service for all of us. The cost of military service was way beyond duty, it was time away from her great love, her child.
Did she encounter danger? Were there moments when a brush with death threatened to make such a reunion impossible? The longing and loneliness between missions and assignments must have been agonizing.
Were there letters sent stateside? Did she get to use a satellite link for occasional telephone conversations? Was a computer link made possible so that they could see each other while they talked?
Still the warm embrace was irreplaceable. The soft kiss or gentle stroking could only be anticipated. So in a flood of emtion all that was anticipated for months were captured in this moment.
Poignantly, the squeeze was a tight as she dared. Too much and it would hurt. Too little and it would just would not satisfy.
What must this mother have been feeling? Words cannot describe it. Her child would not know what to say but would have felt every ounce of affection and love.
I see a wedding ring on her hand. He must have been the photographer. No doubt he had many photos of this special moment.
Of course like most who look through the lens we all snap many photos. Then, in the editing mode one or two take our breath away. We smile and contemplate what our eye is hearing.
This one is a portrait of love and sacrifice. To her and all like her who serve our great nation we have one word. THANKS!
photo credit: Google image
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