To most of us, having a family member away at college, on a business trip, or at an exotic vacation destination gives us some sense of anxiety for their safety. Even so, thoughts of whatever danger they might face while away can usually be banished with a simple self assurance that we are worrying too much – our loved ones will soon be home again.

Since becoming friends with several military families in my neighborhood, I’ve became much more aware of the constant roller-coaster ride that they experience when a loved one is sent in harm’s way. How do they cope with the constant fear of the worst happening to them? How are they able to carry on with their lives – and even smile?

One afternoon, at a neighborhood playground, I asked these questions to a young military wife whose husband has been deployed twice in the past three years. She gave up her career five years ago to be at home with their children. Her answer was surprisingly simple, and attached to a wide smile: “Love”, she responded. “I love my husband and believe in what he does. My job as a military mom matters, and our unity as a family makes us strong and resilient.”

The simplicity of how she views her job as a military wife and mom amazes me. She is fully aware of both her family’s situation and the risks involved in her husband’s deployment, and yet her children are just as healthy, happy, and mischievous as all the others on that playground. They are growing up with two amazing role models in their lives. They understand that faith, courage, love, and resilience are all vital components of a happy life – no matter which path you choose to take.

If you feel the same level of appreciation for military families, be sure to let them know how much you admire them. The support of others who appreciate their sacrifices can be invaluable in helping families at home cope with the deployment of their loved ones.