Dear Brother,

You are more than half way through boot camp. You are on your way to becoming one of the few, and one of the proud. You're working towards becoming a United States Marine. It's almost been two months since I have gotten to hear your voice, or to see your face. I write you often, but do you remember what the recruiter told us? We have to stay positive; we have to tell you we are OK while you are gone. I've been sugar-coating everything, to try and make this process easier for you. I've been hiding my emotions, because I know you have too many of your own to deal with. If I could tell you the truth, I would tell you this:

Dear Brother,

I miss you. Things are tough back here. School has started, and it is keeping me busy. However, I will never be busy enough to stop worrying about you. I think of you often. I have days when I'm OK and then I have days when it hurts to breathe because I miss you so much. Going home is lonely; the house feels incomplete without you.

Moving into school was hard. I am so used to you being there to talk to when the semester starts picking up and I begin to lose my mind. You were always my rock; you kept me strong and steady when school seemed to want me to spiral out of control.

At home, we all miss you. We miss your laugh, and your annoying jokes. Mom and Dad won't tell you, but they are worried. Not that you won't be able to do it, because we all believe in you. They worry because they can't help you. As parents, they've always been by our sides. Now, this is all up to you. Mom misses you, and can't wait for you to come home. Dad is so happy you are following your dreams. Nana worries about your safety; but she knows in her heart you will be OK. Your girlfriend worries; and misses you here with her.

I have never been more proud of you in my life. But with that pride, comes fear. I'm scared you will struggle. I miss you, and I worry about you. But I know you will be OK. You're becoming a Marine; you're going to be invincible.

With Love,

Your emotional, proud, older sister. XOXO