My son left for Parris Island on Monday, August 9, 2010. We were shocked at his decision to join as he had completed his AA degree and 3 semesters of his BA. This wasn't a part of our plan for him, but this is the life he wanted. As a Navy veteran myself, I had some idea of what he would experience, but the Marine Corps outshines all the branches in their expectations of excellence and I knew the challenges awaiting him would test his resolve and spirit. I've run the length of emotions: fear, pride, saddness, and unmeasured delight as I've watched him prepare this past year in the DEP program. He has grown so much in confidence during this year.

So I thought I was ready for Sunday when his recruiter picked him up to take him on the first leg of his long journey. I was okay at the moment, but then the tears started and they haven't stopped. It is comforting to know that my reaction is the experience of all the moms on this site! I was beginning to think that I was a little out there!

I've been reflecting on the tears. They aren't tears of grief, fear perhaps, but not grief or regret. I think mostly they are tears of anticipation of the man I will meet in 13 weeks when we see him at graduation. I know that boot camp is a time of transformation, the transformation that must occur for my son to learn to view the world not through the eyes of "I, Me, Mine" but throught the eye of a collective team of "WE", eyes that are necessary for his success in the Corps and his quest for the Honor of being a Marine when they give him his Eagle, Globe and Anchor. He is up for the task, raised to look for the needs of others and serve where God calls him. God has called him to the Marine Corps.

When I got his brief call on Monday night that he had arrived safely at Parris Island was the moment I gave him to the Marine Corps. I passed off the baton of raising my son to the Corps. They will pick up where I left off and he will be a better man for the experience. I can't wait to receive the first letter from him! I know all recruits go through dark moments and I remember sending some dark letters of uncertainty to my parents during boot camp, but I also know that is part of the process, most recruits go through this and Matt will endure those moments and refocus his eyes on the decision that brought him to the Corps.

So, the long wait begins. Matt is in a place and his future holds many uncertainties where this mother's love can't protect him. I've had to give it to God, praying for his watchful care, breathe and try to relax. I now must model this act of service my son has committed his life to and embrace the Marine Corps family. In so doing, I'm holding all of you in my prayers of watchful care for all our sons and daughters who face this life of uncertainty and ask God to give us all Guidance, Comfort and Strength and keep them safe.

Blessings to all and I wish you well.

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