Reality is so Different... by Ray Shay

Reality Is So Different...

By Ray Shay
7.15.14

Ok, I admit it.  I am a dreamer.  In my dreams the good guys always win.

It was over a year ago when our middle son Raymond blurted out at dinner, "I want to go to the US Naval Academy.  I want to be a Navy Seal so I can be in the fight!"  Raymond's sudden proclamation took my breath away.  He said so much, so quickly, and with so much conviction, it surprised me.  After all, Raymond was only twelve years old.

Just over a year had passed since then when found ourselves standing at the front gate of the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.  Having Raymond attend a Lacrosse camp here seemed like a smart stepping stone on his path to adulthood.  A path that is rarely direct and will certainly be filled with multiple changes and countless obstacles. We checked into our hotel, I was on a mission to find the front gate of the US Naval Academy.  Having been raised as one of seven Navy brats, I knew each military base in the world has a front gate and I was determined to find it.  That was despite pleas from Theresa and Raymond for us to stop and eat, or even my own desires to drink an ice cold beer and eat some Maryland crabs.  I would not stop. I declined all requests.  I just needed to find it. When we finally did,Theresa and Raymond walked up to the front gate and turned so I could photograph them. I was again surprised.  I did not expect it, I was unsure of the cause, but I had to discreetly lower my sunglasses to hide the tears that suddenly filled my eyes. We were no longer just talking about military service.  Theresa and one of our beautiful sons were actually standing where so many other parents have stood before us.  Thoughts of my own family, military service and my dad filled my thoughts.  I could see the broad grin of innocence cross Raymond's face. His childhood dream starting to be fulfilled.  A dream without reality of the hardships and death that warriors all know too well. I really have no choice.  We will support his dream even though I know the good guys don't always win.     After we checked Raymond in we stopped at the Navy Chapel where I knelt quietly in the last row and said a little prayer.  A prayer like most of the prayers coming from that church.  A wish for protection of our son and his dreams and for all past and current warriors who serve our country with honor, pride and courage.  It is them and their parents that deserve our gratitude and our deepest appreciation. Great things like freedom come at a very high cost. Have a good week,