People’s needs are so in the moment that any deep relationship, which takes me years to cultivate and hold dear, is unlikely.

This opportunity with the German widow is something I have never encountered. However, so that she knows I have her back for as long as she needs me, my honesty with her is like no other. I have to tell her I need to back off for a couple of days, because I am an empath and her story, while compelling, and truly heroic, is extremely intense. But I have to come back after a couple of days, or my word, my integrity becomes watered down. This is not acceptable.

I am learning honesty on a whole new level.

No one has your back at all times and any situation.

Friends are a chosen family, which is not necessarily founded on the unconditional love one would expect to and from parents and siblings. This is where the work is found. Fortunately, most of this work is of the enjoyable sort, with each getting to know the other — doing favors, meeting for lunches, sharing in a neighborly cookout. Finding and sharing in a page in The Book.

In Infantry, you can go through any doorway, because you know you’re not alone. I’ve worked with people who were not my friends, but we always had each other’s back, just as we would a friend. Anything less would sacrifice the respect I have enjoyed from others and handed right back. We’re doing a job — and we’re on the same page.

Bravo Team, move out! We’ve got your back!