a letter to the pre-enlistee

my dear Buddy Reza,

i have gone through the mandatory macho rite of passage and i've come out (albeit with a big of bruise, scratch and the lingering abrasion).

i've made friends that i can keep for life, i've gained experiences never to be forgotten and most of all, i've developed character that enforces my strong will.

i hope the notebook (pictured) i've bought for you be a sanctuary of your innermost thoughts, from the initial days of (definitely) insecurity, fear, trepidation, bashfulness and the like, to a transitional mood of angst & whiny-ness (on how f-ed up army life is) to just administrative recollections of your trainings (boy you're gonna find field camp memorable)

so cheers to your PTP BMT, and may yours just be as tough but memorable as mine.

many loves from your buddy of 4 years,

isaac.