But I left feeling encouraged.
Last night, we took our oldest son, Whit, to dinner and then spent some time with him at his hotel. This morning (Tuesday, Aug 13) he shipped off to Parris Island.
It was a bittersweet few hours that my husband and boys didn't seem to get. They were excited for Whit's adventure to begin. They laughed and talked about guns, helicopters, the challenge of boot camp, and the world that would open up to Whit once he was at his new job (MOS).
The bravado was impressive. I won't call it foolish or naive.
Because as a mother, I have, of course, a totally different take on my boy joining the Marines. I see the conflicts growing around the globe. I see the corruption in Washington that would allow our military to be used like pawns. And it makes me angry.
But I am so proud of my son I could burst. He will be a magnificent Marine. It's in his blood and I believe this is the Lord's calling for him. He truly is looking forward to challenging himself and exploring the world.
After a long bout with depression, self-doubt, and guilt over not wanting to work with his father, Whit made the courageous decision to join the Marines. Since I believe this is an answer to prayer, I have as much peace with it as a mother can have.
And I saw something last night that encouraged me. As we walked through the lobby, I stopped to study the faces of the scores of young recruits hanging around, waiting for their room assignments. They were all strong, clear-eyed, normal-looking kids. No purple hair or rainbow flags anywhere in sight.
Quite the opposite. They were laughing and having fun, but no one was rowdy or acting foolish. They were clean, neatly dressed, and alert. Many of them were Believers.
Enrollment in the military is down. Way down. And while the Pentagon has purposely tried to purge the ranks of conservatives, I think there are more coming in.
As if they are called.
I wonder if the Lord is raising up an army of handpicked soldiers. Soldiers for such time as this. Warriors with wisdom and discernment. It's a thought.
Regardless, I am praying Ps. 91 over my son and the whole military. I still believe America is good, the Constitution is an inspired document, and we are a special nation to the Lord--like Israel. America is still worth fighting for.
What do you think? Am I right?
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