Letter to the Editor

Moving forward in life

Sunday, July 14, 2013

To the Editor:

It's July once again. This is my favorite summer month. Not because my birthday is July 12, but for several reasons, such as carnivals, the fair, swimming and don't forget, the fireworks.

Independence Day, July 4 ... that's why I like July the best.

The proudest time of my life was when I was in the Army National Guard and especially graduating boot camp, which started out hard, but got easier as my drill sergeants made me tougher.

I loved boot camp, AIT "training" from PT to the grenade range. I loved it all.

So around this time of year, it brings me back to a lot of memories, from Fort Dix, N.J., to weekend drills in Brazil ...

That was a great time in my life and I salute all who served and those who are still serving today.

For those who know me, know that I took a wrong turn sometime after those cherished years, but I am blessed and proud to say that Christ has redeemed me, forgiven me, and continues to show me that I have purpose ... and that's to serve Him.

Just as I served in the military, I now serve in God's Army, which gives me such a proud feeling that exceeds everything I've experienced and brings me that peace we all long for.

Do you ever feel that something is missing or maybe you're never satisfied?

Jesus Christ can fill that void. I am living proof and I urge you to just try Jesus ... it won't hurt to try!

I've been truly blessed as I follow Him and recently was transferred to a Level One facility.

Here, we're allowed to wear our own clothes, we have couches, refrigerators, the doors never lock, and I even get to work in downtown Indianapolis. The state fair ... White River State Park ... very cool!

IREF, Indianapolis, re-entry, educational facility is such a great opportunity and an awesome way to get men re-accustomed to society, as well as prepare to get on with our lives.

It's as if I'm free, but not quite yet, with the constant reminder that I have to return after work each day.

It helps us to cherish our freedom and "man up" to the responsibility of doing what's right to maintain that freedom.

God bless you!

Shawn Weddle,

Indianapolis