Inside The Rain

Sometimes, when it's raining, if it's a light rain and the sun is out, you can look through the mist and see the rainbow.

Our timing is such that The Man just confirmed his next contract. He will be working in Kabul, Afghanistan. We debated whether he should accept the contract. All the information we have and the people we've talked to suggest Kabul is safe. The trouble is in Kandahar, with military personnel the target.

Still, I am just a bit nervous. Things can turn on a dime, especially where the Taliban is concerned.

But The Man has an opportunity to take part in the reconstruction of a country. He wants the experience, to be part of history. He wants to be an international consultant so that when we retire, we can experience different parts of the world with knowledge and purpose.

So I leave for India October 3, The Man leaves for Afghanistan October 4. These are heady times, as Sis says.

The Boy is delighted. He's ditched his parents at last. He says he's looking forward to managing on his own, like shop for groceries, cook, vacuum, do the laundry. He will likely have different friends stay with him.

For my peace of mind, I've arranged for him to spend the night at Bro's house every Sunday. That way, he's with family at least once a week. Sis has offered to have dinner with him once a week. Sil and friends have offered to check in on him often. He also has the option of calling on Mom, who is willing to come live with him if he wants. But he says he wants to try living on his own, as practice for university next year.

So can I see the rainbow yet? I think so. The Man gets to participate in rebuilding a country and firming up his international credentials as a communications strategist, I make my foray into international development work, explore the unknown, and lose weight in the process (I'll be so upset if I come back fatter), The Boy gets a taste of total freedom, independence, and responsibility. It's a grand adventure for all of us.

I think we will all come through fine and be better for it. We can do this because we are a secure family with strong extended family ties and a supportive network of friends.

It's raining a bit, but the sun is shining, and it's a beautiful rainbow inside this Autumn mist.