Home Of The Brave..

Thank You

Life continues
Changes seldom occur
Stress is a relative thing
Daily life becomes a blur

Til one night
A simple visit to the store
Brought home
A link to the war

A high school student
One I have taught
Stepped up, said 'hi'
Then said something I never thought

'I graduate in June'
The joy written on his face
'I signed up to serve'
The pride glowed from his eyes

The surprise I felt
Mixed with fear
Joy mingling with pride of my own
A boy I once knew now becoming a man

He was always a joy
Sometimes a pain
But now I know
He will do great things

Never will I worry if his choices will be right
The greatest had already been made
His contibution is sure
He will be an asset to this fight

I stood for a moment wanting to say..
Please be careful, return home safe
But instead I simply said
'Thank you'
And continued on my way

Our conversation was brief but poignant
I truly wish I had not been surprised
For I can only hope he knows
To me..
This is the ultimate definition of
American Pride.

K.A.T.H.  4/17/06

That night I saw a former student of mine at the store. During our conversation he mentioned that he was graduating and had already enlisted in the Navy. My first reaction was -congratulations/be careful... all wrapped up together. But rather than focus on the danger I simply said 'Thank You'. I hope that my reaction was understood for what I meant. I hesitated at first I admit... but what do you say to someone you know has potential for great things but expect it to happen a few years down the road. Not now. I could not be happier or prouder to having taught him and I wish all of you who make the same decision the best. May your military career lead you where you need to be. Be careful, please. But above all - Thank you! 2/4/06