The Sisterhood of the Yellow Ribbon

Every woman is important in this story. We need each other. The more there are of us, the brighter it gets. — Idelette McVicker

Recently, I turned in my notice to my job as Uncle Sam decided to move us elsewhere. I’m deeply saddened by this. I found a position within my field where I flourished and excelled. A pit of disappointment has stayed with me since the moment I realized I was leaving a position where I felt at home.

I was given the opportunity to expand the knowledge of many child care facilities across Washington, and in doing so, I hoped to have a lasting impression on the education of the children. I enjoyed the adventures in my work days that took me all across the landscape of the state. Most importantly, I met several resilient retired military spouses who shared office space with me.

These people generously gave of their experiences and stories. Upon my resignation, I met with the friendly faces of my co-workers that expressed empathy, well wishes, and encouragement. They knew what it was like to leave jobs to follow their service members across the country.

The warm departure shocked me.

I was at my current position less than a  year and yet I already had to quit. I was expecting hostility, questioning, and even coldness. I found, however, that the bond we share as spouses transcends what would be considered roadblocks in the civilian world.

Why is it so significant that we, as military spouses, not only support but celebrate our unique sisterhood?

I was once told, “Military life will change you. If it hasn’t, just wait. It will.” Our significant others will be gone for uncertain amounts of time, often during holidays and significant milestones. Our extended families may be with us, but more often than not, those family members will also be apart from us. It’s vital that we establish a group we can rely on that understands and empathizes with our situation.

This isn’t to discredit my civilian girlfriends. Lord knows, I cannot survive without their phone calls and deeply-rooted connections. They tie me to the civilian life I had prior to my marriage. They are vitally important as well. They’re the other half of what makes a balance.

But when the moments come when I need to vent, cry, or reach out to someone due to military situations, it is the ones who wear red on Fridays, carry yellow ribbons, and share the title of military spouse that are often the only solution.

In the blog post I Am an Army Wife, the author provides powerful imagery of what we do in this sisterhood.

This November, I’m thankful for my fellow military spouses, those who walk the path alongside me, those who came before me, who know the ropes and are willing to share pitfalls and successes with me. This November, I give thanks for you—my sisterhood who has answered questions for me, given me support as I leave a job, and for those who truly care for the well being of others.