Dear Mom,

I know you must be worried. It’s been a long while since you have heard from me but my mission here in Iraq has been so secretive that I’ve not been able to write. I can’t tell you where I am or where I’m going but I can affirm that war is hell for both sides.
Though I plan to make a career in the Marines, finding myself in the middle of conflict, is difficult, to say the least. Having to go into villages where poor, innocent women and children, helplessly cower in the corners of their huts while we follow orders to raze their homes of insurgents, is soul- shaking. I’m hoping to be home in another month,, that is, if I make it.
I know you have been praying for me and my buddies here, but can you also pray for the enemy? Sometimes in the foxholes we have time to think about life and how precious it is and how we are trained to snuff it out to gain honor and safety for our country.
By the way, mom, thank you for the large box of your delicious homemade cookies you sent. My buddies want to thank you too. I miss you, mom, and hope to be home soon.

Love and hugs,
Jayson

Copyright © 2008 Mary L. Ports