WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A USNA MOTHER

To be a Good Naval Academy Mother:
     is to know FEAR - there is so much mystery at USNA
     is to know PRIDE - that one so young will aspire to such noble calling
     is to know UNCERTAINTY - why hasn't he called?
     is to know GRATITUDE - that a sponsor will take him in and treat him so well
     is to know JOY - he likes it and is doing so well
     is to know DESPAIR - he's on restriction
     is to know FRIENDSHIP - others who share your feelings and see you through
     is to know FAITH - there is someone other than you working in your child's life
     is to know AGONY - his friend was separated
     is to know a THRILL - catching a glimpse of him in a parade or march on
     is to know PERSEVERANCE - the Dark Ages last forever; send another care package
     is to know SUPPORT - their Sponsors, whom you have never met, write regularly
     is to know ANGER - why does he have watch on the day you can visit?
     is to know to keep PATRIOTISM - spend an hour in Memorial Hall and read all the names marked.

A Midshipman's Mom