Regular readers of this blog may be aware that this year brought pain with it to my family - deep pain.
Today, however, a great measure of joy was delivered to our mailbox, postmarked December 11th, 2009.
First, a little background...
In the late '60s and mid 70's my father, CMSGT Bill Mansfield (USAF Retired), experienced the wonderful joy of seeing two of his sons receive nominations to US Service Academies. As a dad, he must have felt so proud of his sons, for their hard work at obtaining the necessary letters of recommendation, the appropriate test scores and the completed mountain of paperwork that preceded those nominations and acceptance letters - all of which gave them entrance to their college education, while serving the nation.
As his sons, my brother and I didn't fully know, nor understand, the joy that Dad experienced. Nor could Gary or I....we were just 18 year old kids who needed his help to get to where we thought we wanted to be. Both academies provided us with experiences that have long guided us, helped us and (if we are honest) frightened us - living on, in our dreams (and nightmares!). It's been 40 years for Gary and 35 years for me. His was the Merchant Marine Academy, mine was West Point.
Today I experienced my father's feelings...
My son, Colin, is a Senior in High School and long ago set his sights on attending the United States Military Academy at West Point - I think he began his planning when he was 7 years old. He attended my 20th class reunion with me, visited the Academy on a few family vacations and - on his own - spent a week at
West Point last Summer - with the Student Leadership Seminar program.
Here's a peek into our home life, caught on video by Todd Hollenbeck, as Colin opened the letter.
Isn't it fun to smile at (and enjoy) a young person's success with them?
After this year of past-pain, the joy of future-plans has brought life back to our family.
Celebrate with us, won't you?
Den
Congratulations, Colin! What fantastic news! We are very proud of you! "What a day!" as your Dad has been known to say. Just goes to show that a thin letter can be OKAY! Thicker letter to follow...with oh, so much more paperwork. We can't wait to hear the final announcement. Stay strong to the finish! Long Gray Line straight ahead!
Den and Sue, we can just see the glow all around your smiling faces! We know how proud you are of Colin. He's worked very hard for this honor, with your loving support. This is such a shining day for all of you! Savor the sweetness. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. Love you all! Kathy and Bill
Posted by: Kathy | December 17, 2009 at 08:56 AM
You must be so proud. I can feel for you with the mixed emotions you will have throughout this year. While, you are happy for him and his success, you will have to face being an "Empty Nester". I am so glad you have little Cole to help ease the "quietness". It has been quite challenging for me as my house is quiet now, but the satisfaction I have that my kids are in college and succeeding makes me get through it. I look forward to hearing his journeys at West Point and yours and Sues as well. I love you all. Any decisions on a party for Colin graduation yet?
Posted by: Joyce | December 17, 2009 at 11:51 AM
Hey! i'm super happy for Colin!! He is the best of the best!!
And Air Force is still the superior branch!!!
but i'm still happy for Colin!!
Posted by: J Downs | December 17, 2009 at 04:16 PM
Congratulations Colin and Mom and Dad!!!!
Posted by: Idaho Conservative Blogger | December 17, 2009 at 05:10 PM
I posted something on here this a.m., but it looks like it didn't post.... So proud of you Colin! You deserve so much for all your hard work! Love you and praying for the Lord to guide your path wherever He wants you to go! Love you, buddy! Congratulations!
Posted by: Janet | December 19, 2009 at 07:13 PM
Hey Colin....Congratulations!!! Way to go. We are proud of you!
The Lord has answered your prayers...as he always does.
Posted by: Kale Rampenthal | December 20, 2009 at 01:42 PM