PSALM 61:7
I am seventeen years old, and I have a brother who is nineteen. We are very close, even though we get in fights occasionally. (Hey, what are brothers and sisters for?) Last year my brother decided to join the Marines. It didn’t shock me because he had always been fascinated by the military, but it still made me sad that he was going to leave. On May 15, 2005, we waved good-bye as he headed to Paris Island, S.C., for boot camp. For the next four months, life was a little boring without my brother. We heard about the grueling training he was going through in his weekly letters. He wrote to us how he could tell the difference between him and the others who didn’t have someone praying for them. It was good to know that we made a difference in his life even when he was far away. Finally, in August, we drove to Paris Island to watch him graduate as a United States Marine. It was like Christmas, and the best part is that he got to come home with us. He hasn’t changed much; he’s still my same old brother. I think the differences are that I enjoy and respect him more, and I don’t take for granted the time I get to spend with him. He recently informed us that he is switching from the Marine Reserves to active duty, which means he could be sent over to Iraq. It scares me, but I know the Lord loves my brother more than I do, so I will trust Him. Don’t forget that big brothers (or any siblings for that matter) are precious.
Claire Englehart, 17, Cedar Hall School, Bell Buckle, TN
I want to thank You for my family, Lord.
They are one of the greatest blessings You have given me.