Independence Day

This year it holds special meaning for me as my brother is anything but independent at this time. He is nearing his third week of 13 in the Marines' Basic Training Program (commonly known as bootcamp). His letters to me haven't arrived yet but my mother has received a few in which he shares how thankful he is for the things he considered so mundane before bootcamp. He lives, breathes, eats, and poops as his Drill Instructor allows.

I'm proud of my brother for coming to his decision to join the Marines in a mature and thoughtful manner. I do wish he was here visiting me or at least at home but I respect his decision and hope he comes out a disciplined and mature man.

It's become part of my daily routine to write him a short note. I write him daily and then mail the notes in batches of 5 or so. I'm looking forward to getting mail back from him.

We miss you, Uncle Cam!