It was one of those nights again last night. The dreams are so intense it's like they have surround sound! The dream was horrific. I was back in the military and in the middle of a fire fight. For some reason my son was there too. He's 7. Everything I tried to do to get to him in my dream failed. No matter how much ammo I spent taking down insurgents, I couldn't get to him as I get shot trying in vain. Seeing his hand outstretched trying to get to me as well. I awoke in a cold sweat. Trying to catch my breath i quickly realize it was a nightmare. But it got me thinking. What if I wasn't here? What if I knew God was calling me home? If I had a chance to tell him some last truths about being a man, about being a Christian; what would I say? It's a depressing topic I know, but one that I think needs addressed. At least for me personally. Maybe my writing this article, as I self reflect will allow others to examine themselves as well. Mortality is something that I think is very REAL to me. As a retired Paramedic and former Hospital Corpsman, I have seen the best and worst that humanity has to offer. I truly know how fleeting and quick life is. So, I am writing this letter to my son. I'm okay. I don't need a "Buddy Check". I just feel like being honest with myself and all of you as well. Especially with my Son. Tristan, There are so many things to tell you about life. About the world. I will try to keep it simple Son. Life is filled with excitement, disappointment, adventure, sadness and joy. To remain strong through it all you need only a few things. The rest will fall into place. Love. You need to Love your family, friends and fellow man. The compassion for others is a trait that runs deep in our family, and thus far you have been a shining example of this. Don't ever lose that. You are going to love multiple times in your life. You will have your heart broken, and may even break some hearts yourself along the way. Try to be the better person and treat others as you want to be treated. People are imperfect creatures. It is in our nature to be selfish. Try to overcome that and love. Remember the Navy Motto: "Honor, Courage, Commitment!" Forgive. Don't hold on to hate and grudges. It will only eat you up inside. Hate is toxic to your soul and who you are as a person. People are going to make you angry. That's part of life. Let it go and give it to God. Forgive them. Love the sinner and hate the sin. Faith. Have Faith in yourself, and Faith in the Lord. God has his hand on you, and I truly feel that you will do great things and be an amazing servant of the Lord. Remember, you are never alone. The Lord will always be there for you. Even in your darkest hour, he is there. Believe. Be strong in the Lord! Don't be like me. Don't run from him like I did for so long. When in doubt, give it to God. He's got your back! Just like I do! Live. There is so much Joy in the world. Life is a magnificent thing and there is a ton of fun to be had. Live, explore, laugh. Don't be afraid to try new things, or see new places. So many people never truly live because they are afraid. Don't be. Be fearless and LIVE! I have now and always will Love you Son. I believe in you. -Dad JER 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
0 Comments
|
AuthorSpike Bowan is the Pittsburgh, PA born Writer and Fiction Author. He is a Veteran of the US Navy, retired Paramedic, Husband, Father and Christian. BECOME A PATRON. CLICK BELOW!
Archives
April 2017
Categories |