A Soldier's Sacrifice Symbolism

A Soldier’ Sacrifice

Art can be conveyed with a clear point or deeper meaning that is not as obvious. Likewise, one does not always feel the same emotion concerning a piece. Usually, there will be various inputs on the piece. In this piece, I noticed a bigger picture rather than, just looking at the obvious. A Soldier’s Sacrifice, shows two obvious points of symbolism, but in contrast one was a bit more understated. Altogether, I found this piece to be very symbolic, of the soldier’s family dynamic, his current environment, and an even greater sacrifice.

First, one element that makes this picture symbolic is the soldier’s family dynamic. This soldier could be the parent of one child or five. Eventually, he or she will more than likely miss

a milestone, such as first steps, first words, first day of kindergarten, or a graduation. Possibly, there is a sick parent that the soldier does not get to be there to care for. Phone calls and pictures to loved ones, will undoubtedly be their way of life for a while. There is a look a soldier has on his face when he loads the bus and leaves his family. Instantly, he forces a smile while he waves at his loved ones. However, his emotions inside are already making him miss home and long for the day in the park.
The second factor that makes this picture symbolic is the soldier’s current outdoor surroundings. From time to time, one has heard of soldier’s living conditions while deployed. For example, their wind contains large amounts of sand, dry extreme temperature, or they can experience frigid temperatures. Unfortunately, they do not have the green grass, lush shade trees, an air-conditioned house or heater. The soldier does not get to choose the region or the length of time he will remain there. One can understand why living in those conditions would make you miss and appreciate the amenities and environment of home.
Notably, the third detail that makes this piece symbolic is the picture as a whole. This is not just a dad playing in the outdoors with his son. Soldiers have to contemplate the “what ifs” that coincide with the military. Frequently, they cannot help but think if they leave this child could grow up without them, or their spouse could became a widow or widower. Devastating situations like this did affect our family, sadly we lost a close family member while he was serving in Afghanistan. He had recently gotten married and was ready to start a family. Likewise to his marriage, he committed his life to the Navy Seals. Ultimately, he knew the realities of what could happen. Never the less, it was a choice and sacrifice he had to examine and make.
In conclusion, there is more that goes into the soldier’s mindset beyond what one sees. Prior to my husband’s deployment he expressed a few of these possibilities. At the present time, I did not realize all he on his mind. On TV we see the happy joyous reuniting of soldiers and families, but the emotions prior to them leaving is overwhelming. Is this soldier smiling while contemplating the “what ifs” before he leaves or thankful to be back enjoying his family again? That is something we don’t know, but unfortunately it could be his reality. Given these points, look at the bigger picture in A Soldier’s Sacrifice. All things considered it will show the symbolism of interacting with his family dynamics and the environment he gets to enjoy, but also the realities that they may have to process..