Today my dad told me that my little brother enlisted in the Marines.
I'm not really sure what to feel. I'm proud of him, and scared for him. Proud because only brave people serve honorably in the military. Scared because I don't want him to be deployed to a war zone as an enlisted Marine (=front lines). I'm glad he's chosen something that beats say, drugs or shoplifting. And kind of wish he hadn't chosen THIS.
Ah, well. I will still place a "My Brother is a Marine" bumper sticker on my car. Proudly.
Semper Fi, John-boy.
7 comments:
My brother enlisted in the Navy and ships out for Boot camp on March 6th; which also happens to be Miles' birthday... what a day! I totally know how you feel! Scared and proud all rolled into one, a weird feeling, huh?
Very odd feeling. The first words out of my mouth when my dad told me were (I'm ashamed to say), "Oh my God."
I think mine were, ARE YOU KIDDING ME? WHY? and then I burst into tears.
Why is it that even though I have so much pride in my country, when it is my brother that wants to risk his life, the military doesn't sound so great, especially NOW. How hypocritical... sorry Jenny, I can't imagine being married to a soldier and having his children! You are much stronger than I!
When does your brother go to basic training? He will be in my prayers!
We think sometime around mid-Feb, more or less. I'm making a trip home to see him here soon to see him once more before he leaves. Fortunately, if he's stationed at LeJeune, it won't be too far away.
No worries, Brooklynne. You can't help who you fall in love with... but you CAN help who you marry. So, in a way, I chose this. We chose this. I mean, we chose to join the Army; we DIDN'T choose this war, but I digress. Anyway, I totally feel both of your pain! And I think the enlisted part definitely does make it more scary. But aren't you just so proud of them?! REAL MEN!!!
Oh man, Jenny, you hit the nail on the head with the enlistment scariness but being proud of our real men. Ben (my brother) has been floundering ever since he graduated from high school. Not really having a dream, or a goal, just working minimum wage, and bouncing around from place to place. As scary as this Navy enlistment is, I am so proud and thankful and releived and overjoyed that he has found a goal. He's bettering himself while serving our country... what more could you ask for? Maybe something more safe and not into the middle of this idiot war, but I too digress. ha ha ha But war or no, I am so proud of my "real man" of a brother.
wow, I definitely did not think of all the personal benefits of the u.s. military, like personal discipline, organization, attention to detail, etc. thanks, you guys, for your comments. as always, we pray for a swift end to war and complete security for everyone.
in regards to my comments (esp the "book" i left back on "part deux"), i had a neat opportunity to love my neighbor today at the supermarket. in line in front of me were two chicas and a little kid. it was obvious they were "native americans" (short, more-red skin, not so well-dressed, etc... yes, they are stereotypes, but they fit). anyway, they had picked out this large can of beans & meat, but after the cashier rung up the total, it was obvious they didnt have enough money. (their total was only $6, including the can of beans). they discussed amongst themselves, and asked the cashier to take off the can. she tossed the can behind her register, the family paid their (now $4 bill) and left. anyway, long story short, i was able to use my broken spanish to ask to buy the can of beans, and i caught up with the family about a block away from the supermarket. they were a little skeptical taking that can from me (have i mentioned before how much i stand out in latin america? 6'5", 220 lbs, and brown/blond hair. yup. i am "muy extrano!"), but after a few seconds they took it. i thanked them and went on my way.
i share that story not to say "look at me" (you can do the same: just put $2 in the offering plate at church... it really was NOT a big sacrifice). but i share it because ysterday I read in Luke the good Samaritan parable and have been recently praying for God to 1) change my heart with compassion for those for whom he has compassion; and 2) for specific opportunities to love people here. and i think he gave me both this afternoon. So, guys, be encouraged, and pray away, you never know when you will come upon the "injured traveler" in your road!
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