Let down again.

[azdisneymom]

Our DS is going into the military. I plan on going down to the recruiter's office on the day he ships out to watch him swear in and say good bye one last time. DH has just announced he is not going, unless DS specifically asks. We have been told there is a lot of hurry up and wait and DH has never been good at that. I am so mad and disappointed . This is an important day in our son's life. Why can't he just go? I am now at the point where I don't want him there. I am afraid that if he does come with us he will just sit and complain. I sure don't want him spoiling the day for any of us, especially DS.

Thanks for listening.

[SBETigg]

Wow, good for your son. You must be so proud. I'm really surprised that your DH won't go. But maybe he's afraid of getting emotional, and a lot of men will avoid situations that will make them show emotion in public. I understand your frustration. I would expect my DH to go. Don't let him ruin the day for you or the DS, though. He may have his own way of seeing the DS off and I'm sure he means no offense.

[pianobabe]

I agree. DH may not know how he will react when he finally has to tell DS bye. There are times in our lives when we have to stop thinking about ourselves (like being impatient) and focus on someone else. This is an important step in DS's life. I hope DH decides to go.

[NotaGeek]

Congrats to your son ... I think that there is also a time when you have to realize that you can't force other people to react to emotions the way we would like them to ... this is a big day for your son, I would let him experience it without having to worry about how his dad is going to behave. You will be there, and even though his dad is making a choice we all know isn't the RIGHT choice, respect the choice and be there for your son.

[Sunshine1010]

This is just my personal observation/opinion:

If your DH does not go, your son will ALWAYS remember him NOT being there. I doubt your son would hold a grudge...but it's something he'll remember.

Whatever reason your husband has (getting too emotional, not wanting to deal with crowds, not wanting to see him leave, not wanting to deal with 'hurry up and wait').....it's all worth it for your child.

(at least that's my opinion)

Good Luck, and I'll be praying for your son. He's doing a wonderful and brave thing. You must be so proud.

[Katmegali]

Congrats and good luck to your son. I will pray for him. MIlitary life isn't always easy but worth it.

Maybe your dh can have some special time, just him and ds before ds leaves. Some men and women hate the last minute goodbyes - too sentimental and all. This way they can say their goodbyes without onlookers.

I hope all works out one way or another. My prays are with you all.