JKG, thank you for your note ~
There are few words of comfort that can take away the pain of having lost a loved one or even one that we have never known.
The pain remains throughout the years of losing both father and husband in combat. Time? Time to try and understand all that is the precious gift of life and why it ended.
"This is in memoriam of Captain John L. Hallett III. Captain Hallett died in Afghanistan earlier this week (on Tuesday, August 25, 2009). He leaves behind a wife and three young children under the age of four - one a newborn daughter he will never get to hold. Please join me in thanking Captain Hallett for his service and offering condolences to his family for their loss."
To all that come by 'honor bound,' there is nothing that can return the gift of life, would that I could. All that I have to offer are words that cannot convey all that has been lost to family and friends. It is with empathy and understanding that these words are written.
May you know the compassion of friends and all that encompasses the extended family, that is the military. Hold the memories dear and keep the words written upon your heart. Solace comes with time and may the flag of the United States of America bring that last gift. Yet another young life has been lost to keep our country safe. This is no fair exchange for what has been lost and still, you might find that there is the knowledge that belongs to those who have traveled this path.
Your faith will give you the courage and strength for all that must be endured. To you, his family, I know how quickly life can end. I remember my mother's words as she tried to explain and I saw her anguish and pain for the loss of her husband. In my own time, I tried to explain to a young boy child what my own mother had explained to me.
I would not deminish your loss because that cannot be . . . hold fast to all that was good for this is for you to cherish. Hold close your family and your faith for this is your strength.
Peace ~
honey
