Unusual days seem to be cropping up more and more lately. Matt has been having a hard time with work after learning that his mom's cancer gives her only a 10-20% chance of survival over the next 6 months to 5 years. That's understandable. I expected the Navy to be typically hard and uncaring. Instead, today we got to see the softer side of the Navy.
It all started with a meltdown that Matt had at work on Saturday. He was sent home. We talked and talked and talked. I advised him to talk to his chief and let him know what was going on and see what he could do about leave. I also suggested that he ask if there was someone on a higher level he could talk to. He did all of this today, and he got an appointment to speak with his division's chaplain. He wanted me to go with him, so I did.
This man was the sweetest, nicest man I have met since I've been out here. He was very understanding, and got Matt leave from tomorrow until December 27th! He leaves for home Wednesday, and he even arranged for the Navy to pay for Matt's tickets home! He will be back in a week, then is going home for Christmas as scheduled. This chaplain even convinced us to begin marriage preparation classes, possibly go to some couples retreats and a personal growth retreat for Matt. We were there for two hours. I was impressed.
Matt is feeling a little better now, which is my primary goal.
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