"disappeared"

[thebrad]

It seems like I am about to be "disappeared" by my employers... and I've already sold off my home computer arsenal to the highest bidder... that means my excess of time at the 'net is drawing to a close I'm guessing tomorrow. I'll still get a chance here and there to mooch off a friend's machine to check in a couple of times.

You all know I love MY vets... and think a helluva lot of all the loyal patriots too. I can't express enough how appreciative I am of all the time you great people have dedicated to me in advice and conversation. I have digital files and hard copies of all the threads that were in regard to first me deciding to join the Army and then Swearing in. Don't really need 'em though as I've read them enough times that I'll never forget.

And of course I'll show up here from time-to-time as much as I can... which won't be that often - but you can still plan on it.

To those of you who hurt: No - there's no way I can understand or relate at all... and I am fearful that one day I will be. All I can offer is first my gratitude and my sympathy... and a thought - I don't know if it means anything to anyone but me:

Seeing The Small Things. Two (three?) weeks ago I went out on a run... it took every ounce of my will to force myself out - the day before was very cold and very miserable... and the wall felt cold and it looked cold outside... I was feeling run down from the over kill workouts I have been subjecting myself to... I felt that I MUST take a day off to recover... even though I shouldn't. I only got out the door to run because I don't want to get smoked by the 18 year olds straight from high school track to Basic (how that happens in February, I don't know, but that's beside the point). But I did go out - all bundled up. Turned out to be not so cold... and shortly after I started the sun came out - and it warmed up more. I altered my route into a short loop back to the house - so I could shed some layers - and go back out. Running was easy for me back in High School - but not anymore... despite that my entire body felt perfect... my mind settled into that perfect place where it almost looses all presence... at one specific place that I had forgotten about - but seemed to be my destination anyway - I stopped and couldn't help but notice the perfection around me. The wind was perfect, the sky was perfect, the sun was perfect... the entire mood was perfect - and I felt like I was someone great... and to think: earlier that day I was feeling down on myself, unworthy of where I am going, inferior to those I only want to equal, amungst other negative feelings that made me want to stay at home and warm. Yes - a smack in the face - a call to Brad - but it felt like a pat on the back. It was a day meant for me, my day, a gift. Nothing really mattered to me but the moment... all of my worries and concerns about the next few (dozen) years dropped away momentarily. My growing apprehension was shattered and replaced again with the enthusiasm that guided me in recent decisions. And all it really took was for me to pause a moment and appreciate everything around me. I went back to take a picture (attached below). Compositionally and Technically not the best - but to me it feels perfect.

I wish you all love and happiness - I plan on working on the peace part for you personally,

theBRAD

[Drywall]

Great post Brad and the best of luck to you. And thanks in advance for your service.

[reeb]

Brad;

Like I said before,,,

We all wish the best to you and your conquest of what you want.

GOOD LUCK, and THINK OF US WHEN YOUR ON YOUR TOES AND HANDS DOING THEM 50 OR MORE....

Remember, DONT GO IN MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!!

My finial enough to you for now, I know you will be back,,.....


SALUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Even though your going in as enlisted, but later an officer...........

[reconeil]

Good post and great picture, and Good Luck to you.
Plus,...my salute, GarryOwen-to-yuh, and keep your butt down.

Neil

[philly]

Brad,

I wish you much success. I am confidant you will be a great and compassionate leader.

Please don't forget to send me your info.

God bless,

Philly

[nang]

I feel like I'm sending my son off -all over again. What an exciting yet unnerving time this will be for you. I am so proud of you as are all of us. Keep yourself safe, work hard and pray for strength- cause sometimes-you're going to need it.
God Bless you

[MORTARDUDE]

You have just gave me a huge knot in my throat and many tears rolling down my face. You know why. You are a super-super young man. It is a shame, a damned shame, the news-media ( I use that term VERY VERY loosely ), doesn't devote more time to young men and women like you, instead of the criminal element and the 30% that cannot even get through our disgraceful excuse for public education...
But I won't go there ...now... Keep a journal and notes during your Army career, if for no other reason than for your descendants. Who knows.... they may be putting your observations on the www.patriotfiles2050.com ????? ( LOL )

May God Richly Bless You and Your Family,

larry.... just ..... larry

P.S. :

Email me or PM me anytime. Call me on the phone and I will call you right back. I have REAL cheap long distance.

LarryN1121@aol.com

[Bernadette]

Godspeed to you & thank you being a wonderful part of our site.
You will be in my thoughts - A yellow ribbon with your name on it.
Bernadette

[chilidog]

Brad,
I haven't spoken directly to you before, but I have read your posts. I'm not a vet, so I don't have any sage advice, but it looks to me like you are squared away and ready.

You have my prayers and gratitude for putting it on the line for me and my family.

Chilidog

[DMZ-LT]

Brad , you still make me proud. Thank you. God's speed soldier.