E-mail 06/03/2013

We had quite the surprise this week for David's e-mail. Here is what happened in Matthew's words.

It all started when the E-mail system beeped, early in the day, to notify that a message was received. Upon opening and reading the message the first line was disconcerting. It read “I can’t be on long.” Not the words that want to be read right to start with. Reading further the message became clearer. It was from our soldier of God in the battlefield. The message was brief, yet straightforward: "I'll call via Skype at 1300 hours." Anxious about what the reasoning for calling might be, other sources were called upon to decipher the strange message from this brave young soldier. Could he be injured, or sick, surely rebellion was not the reason. Puzzled and confused the allies gathered their forces together to await the soon to be delivered message that might change the course of the war, if nothing else the allies at home.

1300 hours arrived; the familiar sound of the Skype ring was heard. Shouts were made that the brave soldier was on the screen. A beautiful sight to see the fresh troop sitting in his barracks, the signs that he'd been engaged in battle filled his eyes. Joyous glances were exchanged, but wait, we could see him, but he was unable to see our image. Our technician went to work and shortly our image was relayed to his screen.

Finally the triumphant moment had come. What would he say? What important message had he to deliver? "Happy Mother's Day!" The wonderful words came from the lips of the young warrior to his dear sweet mother. "The general," he explained "saw it fit for those faithful troops who were belated in boot camp, so as to not be able to call their dear mothers on that blessed day, he ordered us to call and wish our mothers a Happy Mother's Day." He gladly followed this command with exactness. The next hour was spent in sweet reminiscence. He spoke of his adventures, his battle buddies, his success, and his trials; he spoke of the culture and the exotic food, the wonderful people, and his learning of their language.

Alas his hour had come; he must return to his post and perform his duties. Many people relied on him. The sorrow of parting was swallowed up in the joy of another reunion in six months time. What adventures will this young soldier have in that time? What new stories will he have to tell? We will find out when the snow falls on the ground and music of the Savior's birth fills the air. May the Spirit be with you!