Strengthening Your Married Life, From a Veteran Caregiver + Wife

By: Anna Morgan

As the caretaker and spouse of a medically-retired Marine, I realize firsthand the challenges and blessings that are comprised within each distinctive vocation. When my husband Jedidiah was deployed on his second tour abroad, he suffered near fatal injuries. Our lives were permanently altered in the span of a single moment. I went from a bride of then only six months to a round-the-clock personal care attendant for my serviceman. As a newfound nurse, my responsibilities required supernatural fortitude, devotion, commitment, and sacrifice with every undertaking. While it’s undeniable that we military wives often encounter grueling circumstances, we simultaneously experience an extraordinary sense of impact and increased meaning.

In light of my own personal experience, I’m privileged to present five ways to reinforce your military marriage below.

1. Rely on your faith in Christ.

Resting in the absolute assurance of God’s sovereignty is imperative. As disciples, we can be encouraged realizing that our Heavenly Father records every heartache, collects each tear, and never abandons us (Psalm 56:8). Not only was His Spirit present in the midst of the initial devastation from the revelation of Jed’s critical condition, still Jesus remains near, in our pleasant ordinary life with three young daughters. Every adversity we endured was ordained for God’s glory and our benefit. Moments spent in prayer, Scripture, and camaraderie with other believers have also bolstered our relationship with the Lord, in addition to our marriage.

2. Develop a solid support system.

Another essential aspect of the position of caretaker or spouse is creating a network of trusted confidants. Don’t afford anxiety to withhold you from relinquishing burdens to companions or relatives or valuing their encouragement. Whether you need physical assistance, a boost of morale, or even a simple meal, I urge you to engage with the community. Gatherings tailored toward military families can be particularly worthwhile. Likewise, they provide opportunities to exchange personal trials or triumphs to glean wisdom and insight from equivalent experiences.

3. Prioritize connection.

Likely, as a couple, you’re accustomed to many periods of service-related separations. In order to continue a vibrant and healthy partnership, recognize that communication is crucial. Maintain your marriage through expressing daily updates, exchanging messages of admiration and affection, or requesting assistance with any concerns encountered in their absence. Frequent interaction is not only beneficial but foundational!

4. Establish self-sufficiency.

Independence may seem counterintuitive to a thriving union, yet in this case, it’s entirely opposite. Following catastrophes, individuals may combat newfound mental or physical impairments. Discovering your capabilities in managing family finances or any household duties, for instance, construct increased confidence and a mentality of resiliency. Moreover, pursuing separate past times or new interests will support your sense of accomplishment and aid in maintaining an optimistic perspective.

5. Sustain your health.

Incorporate personal wellness into your schedule, in order to serve from a place of abundance rather than depletion. We are unfit to attend to the demands of others if we cannot manage our own emotional state. Elaborate efforts aren’t necessary to be worthwhile; take a stroll, immerse yourself in an engaging story, watch a favorite film, jot down your thoughts, etc. Ultimately, addressing your needs will be advantageous for both you and your enlisted spouse.

May God bless and guide you along your journey today!

To learn more about Anna’s story, visit her website and blog.

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