I worked in law enforcement for 32 years. I lost my training officer to a cop killer after three years on the police department. I lost two officers from my shifts when I was their supervisor. Losing those you love is so very hard.
While I was serving I came across a book about a group of British SAS in the first Gulf War. In that book I came across something that helped me every day after that. In simple terms it made our knowledge of the gospel simple to express in our daily life.
Because the SAS go out on missions never knowing if they will come back they have put their faith in the sure gift of the Savior and the resurrection. They NEVER say goodbye. But everyday they part from friends and family with one faith inspired statement trusting the sure promise of the resurrection, "I'll see you, When I see you."
My wife and I and our children too now use this as our parting words everyday.
I'll see you, when I see you.
I made it through my career and have thanked God everyday for my blessed life.
While we were serving our first couples mission in Japan my mother died. How grateful I was to know my last words to her were, "I'll see you, when I see you."
Serving our second mission to Canada I had the chance to come home and be in the circle to bless my first granddaughter. My father was in the circle with us. When we left to return to our mission the last thing I told my father was "I'll see you, when I se you.". Two weeks later he passed away. I will see them again. I never doubt it.
I have taken your advice and expressed my love to my wife again tonight.
You have an eternal perspective.
Make this promise every parting.
"I'll see you, When I see you."