I've come to realize how fragile life is. Navy SEAL Bill was a seemingly invincible ball of charisma. He could light up any room. Other men wanted to talk to him. Most women were highly attracted. Guys he served with always tell me how he was one of the best men in the Navy. He remained humble despite immense accomplishments. He remained kind and caring to all despite the emotional scars that I know war caused. Handicap Bill on the other hand is doing great when he puts together a full sentence and takes 12 steps. Bill wasn't invincible. He's only 33 and one bad day in Afghanistan totally changed his life forever. Life is fragile. Hug your family and smell the roses.

Another thing I've come to more so appreciate is the value of all human life. Bill's life these days may seem sad and pathetic, especially in light of the strong man he once was. He needs help with everything, even the most basic human functions. He gets muscle cramps that cause him to cry like a babe. He has regular and horrible nightmares that Al-Queda is still after him. Yet most days he maintains a positive and upbeat attitude. He can still laugh and smile. We can still joke like brothers do about days gone by. Bill's life will never be quite the same or quite normal, but his is still a life well worth living.

More than anything I've come to realize through Bill's experience how much good there is in most people. People from all different walks of life have come forward in strong support and kindness. Bill's countless friends have come from near and far to support him any way they can. What's even more inspiring to me is when people who never really knew him have offered immense love and support. Old war veterans who never knew him have taken him out to baseball games. Ladies from across the country who never met him have made him quilts and art. Kids write him letters of admiration. You people on the VS have offered many tokens of support. My friendship with Jamie originated here and she has boldly gone to visit him twice. It has meant a ton to Bill and our family. I guess what I'm trying to say here is that you VSers have been a big part in me seeing how much good there is in people. Thanks again for all your kindness.