Thursday 18 February 2010

Mixed Emotions..

I have just heard some news, which at the same time makes me very proud but also very scared. In the last twenty minutes I have gone through the whole gamut of emotions, elation, pride, fear, love, joy,sadness but love is the strongest.

My darling grandson Conor has been accepted to serve in The British Army. I am very proud of him, but I am also very worried for him. He is only 16, a baby who thinks he is a man. In the present political climate and the conflict in Afganistan and Iraq, is it any wonder I am in turmoil?

I am told he will not be sent to the front line until he is 21 to be honest that is not much of a comfort.
Don't get me wrong, I am proud of my  Queen and country and I am very patriotic. I have a family history of service to Queen and country, but the thought of my little Con in the army just turns me to jelly.

I love this boy so very much, he has brought such joy into our lives over the past 16 years.

I pray to God he keeps him safe, now and for always.

A Very Proud Grandma.

11 comments:

F. McButter Pants said...

I don't blame you for your mixed emotions. It takes a very special kind of person to serve their counrty. You should be very proud, and yes alittle scared.

I will be keping him in my prayers!

divad said...

Ah, he looks too young!!!! With a Grandma praying for him and supporting him, as you evidently do, he'll be fine. Life brings about many surprises, doesn't it?

WWSuzi said...

I can understand being both proud and scared!!

Friend of the Bear said...

Hi Sheilagh. I think the way you feel is totally understandable and normal. I didn't know they didn't send them to the front until 21. At least he has a few years to gain experience.

And who knows what the situation will be in those trouble spots by then? A lot can change in 4 or 5 years.

Bearfriend xx

Sam Squires - A Crafting Niche said...

I've been in your situation, so know how scary it is. I'll talk to you about it on Sunday.

Sam xx

266 said...

Mixed emotions is totally understandable! I would feel the same way. 16 seems so very young...

accidental carer said...

Be proud She. He is one of the few who wants to make something of himself. It is so easy to let something come to you but he has decided to go out and learn. He will be fine. Normal emotions though I would be the same xxx

Christine said...

I have had husbands, brothers, cousins, uncles and friends in the front lines. It never gets any easier. But you should be proud of your daughter having raised a fine MAN.
there aren't a ton of those left.

Tammy said...

Serving in the military is such an honor and I know you're extremely proud of him. I'm quite patriotic and am always in awe of all of those that serve their country. The sacrifices they make to keep us safe humbles me. I know there's fear there for your loved one...I've had loved ones in the military, too. Just try to let the pride beat out the fear. :)

VRaz60 said...

I can certainly understand your mixed emotions. On one hand, you must be so very proud of your young, patriotic grandson, and yet on the other hand, frightened for him in his service. I have a huge respect for those brave young men & women who serve their countries, and it is my sincere hope that soon, very soon, they will all be home safe and sound with their families. I will keep you and your grandson in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Kathleen said...

Thank you for your kind comments on my blog today. I appreciate your support so much. I, too, remember when we could not eat meat on every Friday. That was a time when the "rules" were a little different. I can feel your emotions for your grandson....the pride, the worry....all mixed up together. I will keep him in my prayers, and you, too. He is still just a boy. Have a great week-end! Hugs, Kathleen