My Friday Memory

My idea for a Friday memory was complete.  I had the whole entry planned out in my head.  Then I realized it was Veteran's Day today.  Change of plans/Change of entries.

I hated my brother. How much more blunt can you get than that?  He was/is two years older than me, and was meaner than shit.  He teased me, annoyed me, sneezed on me (remember, Jim?) and was cruel at every turn.  Damn, I hated him.  He pre-enlisted in the army and I couldn't wait for him to leave.  Get out, dammit.  JUST. LEAVE.

He did leave.  He left good.  It started to sink in that he would fight in wars.  OK, I wanted him gone, but not GONE!  He was getting in great shape and learning things, and about to get out of basic, so Mom and I drove down to see him graduate.  I cried.  It was beautiful. 

My brother has spent time in a God-forsaken desert, defending your freedom...defending MY freedom.  He did without the comforts of home.  He lived a life I can't imagine, and don't want to.  He was there, on the line, making sure I was free to bitch about a hard day at work (wah wah).

God Bless my brother, Jim.  God bless everyone who's ever served their country.  I salute you.  It's a job that must be done, and that I'm not willing to do.  You stand up to make sure I can sit my fat ass down.  I watch Survivor and ER and drink my beer, while folks like my brother sleep in the sand, insuring that those shows have another season. 

I love you, Jim.  I don't tell you that, but I feel it.  I love you more than you can ever imagine, and would like to take this time to stand up, salute, and cry for everyone who has ever served in ANY branch of the armed service.  I am a spoiled rotten, white, married woman with opportunities that exist NOWHERE but here.  Thanks.