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January 25, 2005

24 JAN

I have two younger brothers. They both live in Illinois and are both very important to me, but they are quite different. Middle Brother is intensely hyperactive and energetic; Little Brother is quiet and introverted. They're both fun to be around, and I care about them immensely. But I hardly ever think about them.

We wives spend so much time concentrating on Iraq -- watching the news for car bombs and checking with friends about the latest rumor -- that we sometimes forget that Iraq is not the only place in the world where bad things happen. We're so concerned with our husbands' safety that it's often our only concern.

My friend's brother was killed in a car accident on Sunday. I just spent the last two days helping her arrange emergency leave and travel orders so she could get home. We also had the worst night of weather that we'd had all season last night, so driving to the airport was no small feat this morning. I'm exhausted, physically and emotionally, but again I've been given one of life's lessons on perspective. And as soon as they wake up, I'm calling my brothers.

Yesterday MSNBC called 24 Jan the worst day of the year. My friend and I might have to agree.

Posted by: Sarah at 08:17 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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1 As we buryed our son, PFC Gunnar D. Becker, on his 20th birthday, and I attempt to morn, and help his sister, and half brother, to begin the healing process, i truely understand the phrase, THE WORST DAY OF YOUR LIFE....well, ok, you said year....

Posted by: debey at January 26, 2005 09:04 PM (HoKRp)

2 Dear Debey, I just want you to know how very sorry I am for the loss of your son. Sarah is my daughter, and we have talked so many times about the heartache of losing a child--regardless of what age they are. Sarah attended his memorial and called me that evening. Now I know why everyone thought Gunnar was such a special kid; your comments here show that you have much compassion and strong character and you raised your son that way. You will continue to be in my prayers. God bless, Sarah's mom

Posted by: Nancy at January 26, 2005 11:43 PM (YuW6k)

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There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state with another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness. We must have felt what it is to die, Morrel, that we may appreciate the enjoyments of living.
--The Count of Monte Cristo--

While our troops go out to defend our country, it is incumbent upon us to make the country worth defending.
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Contrary to what you've just seen, war is neither glamorous nor fun. There are no winners, only losers. There are no good wars, with the following exceptions: The American Revolution, WWII, and the Star Wars Trilogy.
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