by Christyl Rivers

Created on: January 11, 2011

Soldiers, both men and women, need to feel the extra swell in the heart that tells them they are loved.  Valentines Day is a great time to reinforce the idea that although it is an uncertain and dangerous world, most people are loved, and not forgotten.

Send something that speaks not only to him or her, but about yourself as well. A thoughtful book that is about a subject close to their interests is a good gift.  It will last long, travel well, and create a bond, especially if it is a work that makes them think about belonging, longing, and the human condition.  A  journal for them to complete, or a countdown calendar with playful entries, might  be fun.

If your soldier is an intellectual, a book on philosophy or spirituality might provoke some insights. If your soldier likes heroes, biographies are good. If adventurous, something about the region in which they are deployed might be appreciated.  The same thinking can go for DVDs, music, and artistic gifts. Be creative, and ask them about interests at every opportunity.

Because brave men and women are serving our country, it should not be forgotten that they are serving their loved ones in ways of providing, nurturing, and collecting memories to share. A camera, or a cell phone that collects such memories is also a thoughtful gift.  A scrap book of past times, and loving family is particularly treasured, especially if you personalize it with notes, poems, captions and quotes about all the ways in which you appreciate your loved one. Posters and videos, home made, or professional can be greatly enhanced with your personal touch.

A gift certificate you make yourself to be redeemed upon return can promise a romantic weekend, a full body massage, a boat trip, or almost anything you can create that you know will be a special thrill.  Also, send some token gift to accompany the anticipation. This could be an ornament to hang by his bed, a photo shop picture of your shared dream, or a key chain, or charm as a tangible reminder.

Food gifts are also appreciated, but only send those you know will do well in extremes of hot and cold, and personalize them with notes, thoughts, and stories about how you came to choose this particular cookie, candy, or snack choice especially for him or her.

Do not send items that are intensely inviting of scrutiny, be they heavily scented, ticking, pornographic, or in any way of questionable taste. Most gag gifts are not appreciated in the long term, even if they provide a short burst of a laugh. Think in terms of something thoughtful that will really have lasting value.

If you choose to send clothes, or personal items, remember to consider whether this is an item he or she would have chosen.  It is best not to error on the side of questionable taste. On the other hand, if he or she has often referred to a particular item, be it clothing, jewelry, that great new razor, or gadget, by all means take the hint!

The important thing is to personalize.  Always say thank you, and  thinking of you, not just with the present, but with words. People need to feel appreciated, and when doing difficult work, soldiers need to know it is all worth it, and they have someone, and something ahead to look forward to returning home to see.

Learn more about this author, Christyl Rivers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.