FLTC: from Iraq

[Tamashii]

FLTC:

"It is what it is" is another one of the those catch-all phrases. It can mean I'm through talking about it ( like 'Whatever!') or it can mean I accept the reality of things. We talk so much in cliches any more that it's hard to know what anybody is talking about. We were joking about this at my g-son's b-day party yesterday!
What we're all doing here is not exact science. We're employing general techniques that give us an opportunity to 'stop the bleeding' so to speak and give us a chance to have meaningful dialog with our spouses when THEY are ready. But I will tell you something for certain: when one half of an equation changes,the whole equation changes. This is immutable Algebraic law. In plain English, if YOU change, the relationship changes.
It has to. That's why we say 'work on you.'
Do you have a relationship with God? I think it's essential that you have one and work on it. You and God together are a tough combination to beat. He will give you strength and get you through this. You have a heavy enough load with the job you are doing. God wants you to give the marriage to Him and let Him work on it, in His time. He does not want you divorced, because He hates divorce (Malachi 2:16). It's the 'other guy' that wants your marriage to go bad.
I was a young Marine alone during Viet Nam. I know your mind is working overtime. It's essential that you take care of you right now, because you're going through this AND you are in harm's way at the same time, something few of us back here can understand.
There are no guarantees and no magic pills, but I started looking to the Lord a year ago and I'm much better for it. I haven't had a breakthrough yet, but they're 'hitting all around me' so to speak, so I know it happens. Seek a closer walk with Him and the miracles will begin to happen. That's His promise.
'Is God a man that He should lie?' I think not. He is faithful.

May He hold you in His hand and keep you safe.

Thank you for your service,

David