A Long Lonely Year

Afghanistan. far away from those I love. Leaving was tough this time, the kids tears tore at my heart. Only as I turned to watch them drive away, did I see my wife crying Never has she cried, always pretending to be strong Going away for the fourth time must have been too much for her to bear. Letting myself believe, I will make it through this fourth combat tour. One year seems like a lifetime, the minutes ticking slowly by. Never letting tears of sadness get the better of me. Everyday, I think about my wife and our four kids. Are they ok? Lost is how I feel. Something is missing, I can barely breathe. Yet this is what must be done, I took an oath. I made a promise. Yearning every second, for my wife's kisses, and my childrens hugs. Every hour of the day I pull out their picture, to see their smiles. Always in my dreams, my family is there for me. Never losing faith. Reunited we shall be, after a long lonely year.