When soldiers are away from home for extended periods of time, they must find ways to maintain their sense of relational continuity with loved ones. One way that many soldiers construct internal narratives to help them cope with this situation is through writing letters and emails to their partners and families. These written communications allow soldiers to express themselves honestly and openly about their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. By creating a space where they can be vulnerable and share their innermost desires and emotions, soldiers can feel closer to their loved ones even when they are physically apart.
One soldier may write to his wife about how much he misses her smile or how he wishes he could hold her hand. He might describe the beauty of the landscape he sees or recount a funny story from his day. In doing so, he is able to maintain a connection with his partner and preserve the intimacy of their relationship despite being thousands of miles away. This allows him to feel more present in his wife's life even though he is physically absent.
Another way that soldiers maintain relational continuity during long periods of absence is by keeping photos and mementos close. They may carry pictures of their family members with them everywhere they go or display them prominently in their living quarters. This helps them feel connected to their loved ones even when they cannot see or touch them. It also serves as a reminder of why they are fighting in the first place - to protect and provide for those who mean the most to them.
Some soldiers may also turn to prayer or meditation to create an internal dialogue with God or their higher power. This gives them a sense of peace and comfort, knowing that someone is always listening and caring for them. They may also find solace in nature, spending time outdoors and appreciating the beauty of the world around them.
Soldiers must rely on their own inner strength and resilience to cope with extended absences from home. By constructing positive internal narratives, they can maintain a sense of relational continuity and stay connected to those they love, no matter where they are in the world.
What internal narratives do soldiers construct to preserve their sense of relational continuity despite long periods of absence and uncertainty?
Soldiers often develop strong internal narratives that help them cope with long periods of separation from loved ones and maintain a sense of relational continuity. These narratives may involve vivid imaginings of future reunions with family members, memories of shared experiences and inside jokes, and fantasies about how their loved ones are doing in their absence.