So I was standing in front of the library today and out front theres an American Flag and suddenly I didn't see it as just a large piece of fabric blowing in the wind. Suddenly it was like every solider past, present and future. And the way the wind was causing the flag to move it was so fierce it was like our men and women fighting all over the world:soldier. I don't know. Maybe I'm just really missing my guy. :depressed
Well the whole point to this thread is...does anyone else look at the American flag differently now? Or since their loved one joined the forces?

I did yeah. But more so once I enlisted.

I don't look at it differently than I have before. I grew up in a military family and have always been awed at the sight of it. I always tear up at the national anthem as well.

No, I have always seen it as a symbol of our great country...

Yeah things effect me more strongly now. I totally starting crying during the national anthem at a major league ball game.

I had tremendous respect for our flag growing up, but it became 100 times stronger after getting through boot. (I've been known to cry during the SSB when they play it in the base theater before a movie!)

I always felt bad. I mean I knew men and women, and their families where sacrificing so much for me and mine. But as I child and only in the later parts of my teen years did I really start to see just how much they all really give up and how hard it is for them and anyone who knows them. I feel really stupid/ heart less for never truly appreciate all of them. :depressed But now that the man I love is involved it's suddenly like a splash of cold water on my face. The fact that he could me taken away from me at any minuet.
I was watching the news the other day and they showed pictures of Soldiers in Iraq and I started to cry. And all I could think of was 'fathers' 'brothers' 'sisters' 'mothers'. It's so sad, but I'm glad I'm starting to appreciate them now. Better late then never I guess.

Sorry for this being so long :duh

Oh yes. Since my brother joined the Marines my 8th grade year, I've have always looked at the flag differently. And now that DB is a Marine as well, seeing that flag brings even more pride to my heart that ever before!