With Dusty Sands of the Afghan Desert

The other day, I dragged my feet through the door after a long day. I turned to check my mail and there it was buried between the ads and the bills - a Canada Post Parcel Pick up tag. Ignoring the other mail, I quickly picked it up, examining the tag for clues. No clues. Coming to intimately know the hours of the Postal Outlet I checked my watch - closed. I returned to my car and affixed the tag to my shifter knob - a keen reminder for the next day.

Feeling as though I again was a child in the early mornings of Christmas day, I just couldn't wait. My day at work finally finished and I swiftly jumped into my car and drove to the Post Office.

As soon as the staff saw me enter their outlet, they quickly became very bubbly and so excited!

Dave soon re-entered the counter area caring a brown paper wrapped parcel - just a beaming!

"It's for YOU this time... this time YOU are getting a parcel!" he exclaimed. I recognized the handwriting on the parcel... it was from my son!! Running my hand on it, I soon felt the dustiness of the Afghan sand. Together we looked it over - looking at the stamps - the HUGE $8 stamp on it - as well as the others. A heart and "Happy V-Day" was written on the one side.

The staff asked if I was going to rip it open in the car. I said, "Are you kidding? I need to take pictures of it first!" (if you know me, you'll know how me that statement is) As well, I noticed it also had my husband's name on it, so I knew I should wait.... some more. Promising the staff that I'd return to disclose to them what treasures were inside, I strode out to the car, beaming yet nervously caring the parcel. Was it the replies for the children's letters? hmm.

That evening, we sat on the sofa in the living room. I set up the camera for a picture when the dogs both jumped on the sofa with us - just as curious if not more. Carefully, trying not to tear the lettering, I proceeded in opening the parcel. First we opened the card - it was so beautiful.

Somehow I felt as though lots of love and a hug enveloped us as we read it. I then wept.

I love you too my son. We're so very proud of you. Happy V-Day to you too.

Love always, Mom

When I open my eyes,

I can clearly see

The colour of the Canadian sky looking back at me

Within a parcel dusted with Afghan sand

A Valentine card clutched tightly in my hands

I can feel a huge tear rolling down to my chin

I can only feel the pride from deep within

The words he wrote with such amazing grace

I wipe the tears falling from my face,

For the love from my son I received from away

Fills my heart full of love on Valentines Day.

~ Military Mom