(((((((((((( chalm ))))))))))))) I'm so glad your friend had you to talk to.

My best friends brother is a Vietnam Vet....was injured horribly and disabled. I remember the family getting word of his injuries and when he was back in the states at the Veteran's Hospital. I remember when he came home....how sad his eyes were. How he shook....how he cried. He is still having physical issues that he needs surgery for.....and he's putting it off....he's scared he may end up even more disabled than he is now. I can't say that I blame him.

Over the years as we've aged, he has told me more and more stories of his experiences of war. I always sit quietly with him and listen intently....sometimes extending my arm around him when I feel he can handle it....and we always end the conversation with a hug and him thanking me for being able to listen. He's a great guy.....I'm proud to know him.....I'm thankful for what he gave for me, for his country. I love him dearly...he is family....like the big brother I never had. We laugh a lot together. And we cry too....it's all good.


sabby