January's Phoenix

I had kind of given up on feeling inspired this month. There has just been nothing good about January so far, just lots of pain and lots of sadness for my friends and for me. I was on twitter this morning, thinking about something entirely different, when I saw a link to a new blog. I was not prepared for what I would read. Caitlin, of Cosmetology and Combat Boots, was a bride and a widow within 5 short days. While I found her posts about the incident absolutely tragic to read, I found power, courage, and poise in her as she faces what every military spouse fears.

I wish that I could get to know Caitlin under other circumstances and give her this award then, but I feel that the courage she shows in the face of the worst adversity is worthy of both honor and reflection.

I know every milspouse imagines that they know or are prepared for what they will do if that phone call or knock on the door comes. I don't believe it is possible to ever prepare or have any idea of what you will do if everything falls apart. I think that honesty in discussing this potential outcome is hard to find and it takes remarkable courage to be that vulnerable in front of others.

Caitlin, I want you to know that every milspouse shares your loss with you, no matter how close or far they are from the community, regardless of branch or spouse's rank. You don't have to go through this alone. Everyone is here to support you in any and every way we can. Please feel free to post to your blog, or this blog what you need and we will find people to help with it. I am so very sorry that this has happened. I know there aren't words to say that will make things better. I hope you know that you are loved as our sister and friend and we are here with you every step of the path ahead. You and your family are in our thoughts and our prayers every day.
I know you feel like you are in ashes right now, but I promise that someday you will (and I think you already are) rise from them and fly again. In the meantime, we all are standing by to help until you can.