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Washington DC
Brenda, Active Duty Army Spouse

Packing Up

When my husband entered the Army we had already made seven moves on our own. Whether it was a move from one apartment to another across town, or a move across country, we decided quickly it was not a favored activity. The news that Uncle Sam would send a packing crew to move us made my husband’s choice of the military great in my book!

Packing day arrived. I was impressed with the crew in their neat jumpsuits and professional manner. They seemed sharp and knowledgeable as they carted up our worldly goods.

We arrived at Fort Benning, Georgia after several weeks were assigned a beautiful set of historic quarters. Imagine my horror when I unpacked those sharp, perfect boxes, packed by sharp, professional packers — to find garbage! THEY PACKED MY GARBAGE! An open box held rotten bananas, a moldy milk encrusted baby bottle and more disgusting waste and rubbish! I was so thrilled that I didn’t have to pack and move myself and so impressed with the snappy dressed packers, I failed to see what was being packed.

Too often I do this internally as well. I pack the same problems thinking things will improve with this move. Eventually that 'box' will be opened and the stench of rubbish will eventually become apparent. If you find yourself in this place following a move, I encourage you to seek help. Garbage left untreated will continue to follow us until we decide to throw it out for good. (Isaiah 43:18-19)

Adapted from Medals above My Heart
Brenda Pace and Carol McGlothlin
Published by Broadman & Holman, 2004
Duplicated and used by permission