This is such a moving essay about one fine young man. If you want to cry, go ahead- that's what mothers do when they miss their little boys, no matter how big they get. You're more entitled to tears than anyone else is. (I'm not a mother but I can begin to understand because I have four nephews ages 20-31 who are my precious "little boys.")
I will send good thoughts Eric's way and trust that God will protect him as he so bravely serves our country.
Thank you, mafree. Tears fill my eyes as I type this.
In some ways what Eric is doing is so ordinary, but in others it is extraordinary. I am thankful every moment of every day for God's gift to me in my family, my friends, my church, my President, and my country.