<p>Sure puts everything in perspective...</p>
<p>Prayers and condolences for the Seidel family.</p>
<p>Yesterday, I was sitting on my porch with a prideful smile thinking about the our son completing his first year at West Point. Today, the realities of war have washed away my smile with tears. </p>
<p>Each time I read a notice about another war casualty, I say a silent prayer for the families of our fallen military men and women and, selfishly, say one for myself. I pray that the good Lord will not test my faith and patriotism by asking my family to pay the ultimate price that Lt. Robert Seidel's family has paid.</p>
<p>During the last year since our son took his oath on R-Day, I have come to better understand how our military men and women, and their families, are making monumental sacrifices on behalf of all of us. No wonder that patriotism runs so high in military families; they sacrifice for America every day. They give so much of themselves and, as a result, are drawn nearer and dearer to the land we all love. </p>
<p>When our son comes home next week, he will probably not realize that he has received an extra snug hug from me. Nor will he realize that the hug is for him, Lt. Robert Seidel and all our military men and women who have given their last measure for our great nation.</p>
<p>God's blessing to all.</p>
<p>"Nor will he realize that the hug is for him, Lt. Robert Seidel and all our military men and women who have given their last measure for our great nation."</p>
<p>Amen.</p>
<p>I've had think link sitting open on my computer since it was posted. For some reason I just can't close it. To come to think of it, Lt. Robert Seidel's career is identical to my own career plans. Its quite unnerving if you understand where I am coming from.</p>
<p>I've looked at this post for three days now. Wanting to say something, but the words would not come. Aspen has put my own feelings into the most eloquent words I could ever hope to post here. I think you spoke for all of us.</p>
<p>ragmanlaw, you just keep doing the great things that you were meant to do. You are an outstanding young person and I know you're going to go far in life. Hold that head up high.</p>