Friday, August 4, 2006

T-34, Day 46, 41 days till family day.

Things are definitely looking up. Tim's letter has motivated and inspired me. I feel sooo much better about his training and his general outlook on bootcamp and continuing on to the finish. The transformation happening right before our eyes in his letters is unbelievable. His pride and confidence radiates in every written word. His penmanship has even taken on a prouder posture.

The matrix only shows limited things on each days schedule. The amount of training the recruits go through during this week and next is huge. They record every shot, every action, every result. It is time consuming and precisely documented. I cannot believe my son who detest anything to do with academics is having to write out every second and every detail he does with his gun. The gun part he probably revels in the priviledge of playing with a powerful weapon. The documenting, shooting results and scoring is most likely frustrating him when he would rather just shoot. Patience. Hmmmm.

I cannot imagine Tim as a well groomed, physically buff, loud talking Marine. It will be a sight to behold. Not that Tim is fat or slouchy, just he didn't let a forgotten belt, or button missing ever slow his wearing an article of clothing. It wasn't that critical to him.

There could not be all this change without several key factors. First and foremost is the Lord's blessing and guidance. His awesome power, strength and love has been so evident throughout this whole ordeal. Second, is the United States Marine Corps and their successful recruit training program and the dedicated Drill Instructors and Senior Drill Instructors. Third, is the dedication, resolve and commitment Tim has always dreamed of achieving. His desire for total success in something he can excel at has always played a determining factor in his enlistment. He wanted something special and different than just a everyday job. I know he has found it. I am so proud of his success but I am prouder yet of his pride in himself. That warms this mothers heart.

Lord, bless and keep Tim. Help his faith in you grow and be steadfastly stayed on you. Help us to remember to pray for him. Never let us become complacent or too comfortable to realize Tim's sacrifice. Remind us of your Sons sacrifice. Thank you for sending Jesus to save us. Thank you for sending us Tim to be our son. In Jesus Name, Amen.

I just keep praying, praying, praying.