I saw a young man buying groceries tonight.

He stood so proudly in his military dress, with shoulders bearing the weight of all those who served before him. As I watched, I couldn’t help but think of my own Army soldier now so very far from home.

It’s a difficult proposition when our little ones leave us; and harder still, when we know they’ll be in harm’s way.

I raised my son to be a fearless explorer, with only one wish – that he would always follow his heart. Tonight, his heart leads him to ‘do the right thing’, to stand for those who are otherwise unable to stand for themselves.

He is giving what I consider to be the ultimate gift. That is, a selfless love in service of others.

I broke down as I watched this young Army soldier. I suppose he must have heard my sniffling from behind, as – before he left…he turned, hugged me and said,

“Merry Christmas, Mom – don’t worry, he’ll be home soon.”