Life as the son of an armed forces member has not been easy. The frequent moves, deployments, and time away can cause severe strain on the family relationships. There can be and at times was resentment. My Dad has been committed to and worked hard in his career and that means that he has missed some of my important accomplishments like my first soccer game, field trips, award ceremonies and more. I wish more people understood the toll it can have on someone. When someone thanks a military member for their service, I now understand why they also thank their family. It takes time to adjust when my Dad has to be away.
Life has not been easy, but it has been fulfilling. I am the proud son of a member of the armed forces. I now understand the selfless sacrifices that my dad had to make in his personal life to ensure the freedom of everyone around us. Because of his sacrifices, I feel as though I was able to gain skills such as problem solving, conflict resolution, and leadership skills so that I could help out at home. It taught me the importance of having and completing my responsibilities.
In spite of everything, I am graduating a year early from high school and am happy to know that my Dad will be in attendance for I know that it also takes a toll on him to not be present for these moments.
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