Dear Mom,

Let me first tell you how much I miss you. We’re in this war and it scares me. It hit me incredibly hard when we buried those who died in the Pentagon. I actually started to cry, even though I wasn’t supposed to. We’re supposed to stand tight for the duration of the ceremony. But seeing the families, seeing them cry uncontrollably, just kills me. One funeral we did was for a former Ceremonial Guardsman. I felt the pain of that family.

It’s hard to accept that this is in God’s plan. He allowed this to happen for a reason. To strengthen our nation? Our faith? I think so. I’ve seen a lot here that proves it — people coming together, supporting each other, partaking in vigils and prayers … living differently, seeing things in a different light.

You asked how I could be around so much death doing funerals all day. Mom, I get the privilege of rendering honors to those who keep our country’s freedoms alive. I’m glad I get that privilege.

I can’t wait to come home to see you. I wish, through all this turmoil, that I could be there with you. But I know you understand. I’m with you always. Please write soon. Until then …

Love,
Jason