My Kid Is Going To Iraq And I Am Just A Mess

[Binka]

Here is my 24 year old Love at his MCRD graduation



Here is his brother age 19



Here is his sister age 21



Here is his baby sister age 4



Here is His baby sister giving me flowers last Sunday



I am just freaking out. I am just crying beyond belief. My children and I are frightened to death. Casey only lasted two weeks in Iraq. This shit breaks families apart. Here is my family when we are happy. Please dear Fuckwittage George do not put us through any more grief.

[Bluebear]

1. Benjamin Elliott, all good things to you. SAFETY.

I am thinking about you EVERY DAY.

[Binka]

6. Ah Blue Love You, You Remembered His Middle Name

I know I am so stupid for repeating these posts but I am am just so fucking scared. and I want love. Not too much to ask is it?

[Bluebear]

7. I promised you I would think of him every day.

I say his name and try to send out some, I don't know, force field rays. :)

[Bluerthanblue]

37. oh god...

you are NOT stupid... and i wish i could make this not happen.... it's NOT too much to ask for love, support, and caring.

For reassurance, and a listening ear... and hugs... and tea and ...
i will hold your beautiful family close, for what that is worth-

oh, that i could send you more-

peace, comfort, love and HOPE.

you have a bigger family than you know.

blu

never hesitate to say you need...PLEASE... that is what life is all about.

[oldtime dfl_er]

42. We will think about him every day!

Please come here and talk with all your DU family whenever you need to. We support the troops.

http://www.cafepress.com/scarebaby/654252

[Imagevision]

68. Binka, was he not aware of Bush "faulty" intel etc. in lead up to war?

[Bluebear]

70. SO many good, patriotic kids enlisted after 9/11

They wanted to truly defend us, and for that I am stirred and grateful. They got caught up in a horrible bait and switch.

[Bluerthanblue]

80. it doesn't matter what..

.. he 'knew' or didn't. He 'trusts'. And he is 'of age'. And he shouldn't be 'used' by this government to do something like this.-
And as a mother, we can't stop our children from living their lives.-
Even when it hurts us and scares us, and puts them into places we so desperately don't want them to go.-

i feel motherly towards every single person involved in this mess. including the Iraqi's even if they are old enough to be my father or grandfather, or mother.

this war is wrong- and this shouldn't be happening.

And we WILL stop it. somehow. for the sake of everyone.

[blondeatlast]

93. Precisely. If all the kids who enlisted for the right reasons were

sent to find ObL, we'd be enormously safer and the world would be forever grateful.

Alas, our perverted president and his blood lust has sent them to a travesty.

And ObL is happily at large.

[FreedomAngel82]

103. Something that helps me through all this

is <"A false witness will not go unpunished,
and he who pours out lies will perish."~ Proverbs 19: 9>

Don't forget the verse about the peacemakers from Christ.

[shadowknows69]

145. Those of us that believe in magic

are sending all positive energies and prayers of protection for your family binka.

[blondeatlast]

91. Can we leave the politics at the door every once in a while?

Please, if you can't feel her pain and offer support, keep it to yourself for now, would you?

[Just Me]

104. If only you were within my arm's reach,...

,...if only. I'll wager YOU would completely "misunderestimate" my response to you.

[anarchy1999]

122. Binka, I sent you a PM.

Peace Binka, to you and yours.

[wake.up.america]

141. If he wants to go, there is not much you can do except try.

Tell him to go to Canada. Try anything!!!

[thedailyshow]

2. what a beautiful family!

My prayers are with your son, and I pray that he will return home safely.

[graywarrior]

3. Wish I could make you feel better. We're all fighting like hell to

get fuckwit out of office and bring them home.

Beautiful family.....

[Blue_Roses]

4. what a beautiful family

:hug:

[Binka]

19. Good Lefties Every Damn One!

That's why they are so beautiful! Please don't take my Ben. He is such a good soul. How would I take care of Pey if they took him from me?

[babylonsister]

5. Oh, Binka, hugs to you and your beautiful family.

:hug: I know you're heartbroken as I've read your posts. Has your son given any consideration for going AWOL? Jail time might be preferable to Iraq. Just my humble opinion...

[MuseRider]

8. My heart

my love and my prayers go out to you. I have two sons and I can't imagine your worry and fear. You have a beautiful family may your oldest stay safe. :hug:

[Poiuyt]

9. Just remember - MOST Americans come back OK

I'm sure your son is well trained and won't do anything stupid. Chances are very good that he'll be no worse for the wear.

PS - A great looking family. I love your daughter's peace sign! And I hope your thumb is better.

[Binka]

28. I Cut My Thumb Slicing Bread To Make Croutons

The freaking thing should have had 15 stitches but Italy is on holiday! Thank Gad for duct tape!

[knowbody0]

10. i am so sorry

if you can, hook him up with a cell phone. it's so good to actually hear their voice over there.

[Career Prole]

11. Such a nice family! We wish him a safe return

and may you find comfort here while you await his homecoming.
:grouphug:

[Dinger]

12. Please Give Him My Support; You Certainly Have Mine Too

I will pray for him and your family every day. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. I will be teaching third grade this fall, and if you'd like my class to write, I know they will. You can pm me if you want.


Blessings,

Ding:hug:

[Taverner]

13. OMG Hugs to you from california

I have a 2 year old, and can sympathize....

:hug:

[sepia_steel]

14. Your family is beautiful

all my good thoughts to your son Benjamin. And a big "thank you" for his bravery.

[qanda]

15. You have a beautiful family

I will pray for you and your son. This must be very difficult for you.

[Psst_Im_Not_Here]

16. Tonite

I will light a candle, in honor of the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, wives and husbands who will be facing what you are now. I will repeat this every night until they bring them home. There are no words that I can say because, I too am a mother of 2 boys and can not bear to even imagine what you are feeling. But, know this, I will be thinking of your son every night as I light that candle.

[Mnemosyne]

17. Oh Binka, I am so sorry!

Your kids are beautiful.
I will say a prayer for your son's safety.
Hang in there, you will get through this, but it really sucks.

Hopefully fuckittage will be indicted soon and we can quit sending these wonderful kids over for his profit.

:hug: :cry: :hug:

V

[stillcool]

18. wow....no words...heart hurts for you and yours...

[bonito]

20. Hang in there, your not alone

sending heart felt intentions ( my prayer)

[Straight Shooter]

21. Are you sure that's your son and not your brother?

You look so young :)

We are here for you, and we will keep your son and all your family in our thoughts and we'll keep fighting the Coward of Crawford for what he's done. (Your youngest daughter is about the same age as I was when my dad went to Vietnam, it's going to be really difficult for her until her oldest brother comes home again.)

Blessings and strength to you and your incredibly beautiful family.

[LiberalAndProud]

22. Unfathomable

fear and grief that is yours now. How I wish I could send you comfort in some way.

Please, ask Bush what noble cause requires you to give your son. It is the rage of mothers that will end this war.

[xultar]

23. You don't look old enough to have a 24 y/o son. That said...

I'll send good vibes to you and your family. Your children are beautiful you have a great family. You'll be there for each other and you all will be there for your son/brother.

[deadparrot]

24. Binka...

:hug:

I know there's little I can do or say to make this any easier, but please accept my prayers and good thoughts for your son and your whole family. Best wishes.

Also, if he needs anything, and has Internet access, maybe he should check out an application for

http://anysoldier.com/ForSoldiersOnly.cfm

They can set him up with a contact who can send him care packages.

I'm sure many DUers will help you materially, and especially your son, if the need arises. And everyone here is available for support and love.

[Hissyspit]

25. Binka, thank you for the wonderful photos.

My humblest attempt at comfort would be to say to you is that he will return unscathed and that his fellow soldiers will do their best to look out for him, as he will for them.

[johnnie]

26. My thoughts are with you

I have a dear friend who's son is being deployed soon. She is a mess also and i try to calm her the best I can
There is nothing I can say except that I care and am thinking about all the men and women out there.
:hug:

You have a beautiful family.

[Desertrose]

27. Thanks for sharing those wonderful pics of your beautiful family Binka

I wish I knew something to say....this whole insane bushworld just sucks.....

:hug::hug::loveya:
DR

Are you sure you're old enough to have all those grown up kids? :)

[pacalo]

29. Good luck to both you & your son, Binka!

May he keep out of harm's way.

At least you have DU to help you through it!

Beautiful family!

[MissMarple]

30. Our prayers and best wishes go with him and stay here with you.

You have such a beautiful family. Your young Marine looks like a fine young man. But we know how really young they are. I have an 18 year old son, it would break my heart if he joined the military, let alone my 24 year old girl child.

Here in Colorado Springs there are many young military kids, a neighbor's is in the Army Reserve and just came back from Iraq. He is fine. The chances are truly on their side for coming back in one piece. We will wish him the best of luck everyday. God bless.
:hug:

[datadiva]

31. Nothing but good wishes for you

Hope he comes home well. Good thoughts to you and your beautiful family. :grouphug:

[Swamp Rat]

32. abraço

:hug:

[Lady Effingbroke]

33. What a beautiful family you have, Binka!

You must be so proud!

:hug: and prayers for you and your family in this awful time.

[Blue_In_AK]

34. Oh, Binka, I am so sorry

I will be praying for the safe return of your beautiful boy.

[Karenina]

35. This has to STOP.

Be brought to a FULL STOP. Binka, your babies are BEAUTIFUL, as are the babies of the people your dear son is being sent to harm. This is all beyond ATROCIOUS and simply must be brought to a screeching halt. American patriots are at the helm, despite the corporate din to convince everyone of their helplessness. THIS BULLSHIT MUST BE HALTED! :hug:

[Binka]

51. Yes Full Stop

I spent two years in Oman before coming to Italy. I am grieving for the Iraqis. This fucking war madness will affect everybody. Stop it now Fucktard Bush. Now.

[Sperk]

36. I am so sorry, post about this ALL you want. I would feel the same way.

Your family is lovely. Off point, was it difficult adjusting to your fourth with such a gap in ages? I'm sure your son will enjoy all the drawings she will send him. I was about 8 when my brother was in vietnam and looked forward to sending him packages. I'm soooooooo sorry you are going through this.

My biggest memory of the the vietnam war is my Mom lying on her bed and sobbing uncontrollably because her oldest son enlisted. So heartbreaking. He came back in one piece and I'll pray for the same for your son.

God Bless.

Post often and let us know how he's doing.

Love from Massachusetts.

[lildreamer316]

38. I am crying for you .

I will surround him with white light in my thoughts as often as possible. Please tell him discretion is the better part of valor (from a mother's viewpoit!)Sorta kidding. All love to you and yours-

[Solly Mack]

39. (((((((((Binka)))))))))))))

I've never watched a child go off to war but I did watch a husband go. I can't take your burden away and I'm sorry for that - the "wait" can't be explained with words really - it's pure raw emotion.

Keep busy, it helps to hold the thoughts at bay. Sounds lame but it does help...

If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask.

[G_j]

57. (((((((Binka)))))))))

you are in our thoughts and prayers :hug:

[HeeBGBz]

40. You have a lovely family

My prayers and good thoughts go out to you, your son and the rest of the family.

[LaurenG]

41. Hang in there

I wish I could hug you I feel so sad about this. He is a beautiful young man. Trust him, he will do everything in his power to stay alive. Can you hook up with some others in your shoes? Support, you really need support. You have mine as long as you need it.:hug: :cry:

[Bluzmann57]

43. Lets hope oldest son is home

for all his siblings graduations and marriages and whatever else happens in their, and his, lives. Hope he makes it home alive, in other words. And hope you and your family hold up during all this. Please be aware that this Iowan's prayers are with him and you. Good luck.

[onecent]

44. My thoughts are with you. May he come home safe!!!! n/t

[Just Me]

45. Binka,

:hug: I love you, your son and your family.

Together, we are working as "domestic warriors" to fight for our people's right to be shielded from exploitation,...while our soldiers will fight to protect themselves from harm when they are supposed to be fighting to protect us from harm.

:hug: This shit is so unfair!!! But, we're doing something about it rather than falling into cynicism, powerlessness and despair.

:hug: My brother is leaving soon, too. This shit does tear up families.

:hug:

[babsbunny]

48. Thank You to your Son for proudly serving our beautiful America!

I am more commited than ever to "Do Something" to change the world!

[ismnotwasm]

46. All my love and support your way

My daughter spent a year in Afghanistan. One of the things that made it better was sending "care packages" to her. My Dad had this great idea, and sent pounds of really good coffee beans plus a grinder. (She was the shit over there, the soldiers trade stuff--they also compete over who gets the "best" packages) We sent tons of books, just all kinds of things. The E-mails, the letters, all that made it just a little better. My job even sent a care package to her. Somehow, it kept the contact a little more real, the fear just a little less. I know he's your baby, and how hard it must be. My heart just aches for you and your family.

[scudrunner]

47. My Son recently returned from Iraq

My thoughts and prayers are with you also.I have several St. Michael medals, blessed by Pope John Paul.If you would like them they are yours. I didnt know if I was going to make it thru my sons deployment,it was difficult but with prayer and taking each day as it came the time passed fairly quickly.Im proud of your son.

[deadparrot]

54. Welcome to DU.

:hi:

[Zomby Woof]

49. I am very sorry

We will all wish for his safe return SOON.

[blondeatlast]

50. Courage, sister. I'll try to shoulder some torment for you, if possible.

My son is only 8, and I can only begin to understand what you must be going through.

When I think that it could possibly be my son, it rips me to shreds.

We are here for you, count on it. :hug:

For your brave son, who chose to serve his country regardless of the reason, I offer this:

:patriot:

Prayers for the well-being of all affected by this.

[blondeatlast]

84. Support in this thread as well:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x2020449

I worded the SL poorly, so I'm not sure people clicked through.

[ninkasi]

52. What a beautiful family you are.

I would be going through sheer torment, if one of mine were going. I pray that he will return to you, unharmed, and soon. Why can't the other side realize that it's because we love and support the troops, that we want them home safely?

We are always here for you, and just let us know when you need something. I see your son, so handsome, but so very, very young, and the rest of your beautiful children, and realize that every person sent to Iraq has people who love them, praying for their safe return.

For you, and for all the others who are living in torment, worrying about the safety of your loved ones, I hope and pray that this war is over immediately. This is so very wrong, to put families through the waiting and worrying. I'm sending hugs, and loving thoughts to you and your family.

[dddem]

53. You and your family are in my prayers.

Have faith, and pray for peace, for yourself and for the world.
I wonder if that idiot in the white house has any clue the kind of pain his arrogance has wrought. I'm so sorry you have to endure this - I don't know how I'd do it. God bless you.

[tinfoilinfor2005]

55. What a handsome guy...

he will give you beautiful grandchildren someday and you will spoil them rotten!
God Bless your son and your gorgeous family!

[Pithy Cherub]

56. ((((((((Binka))))))))) Blessing to you and yours

and Goodness and Mercy to follow you Always! What a family of beautiful souls. You and yours are in my thoughts and prayers!:hug:

[johannes1984]

58. strength and may fortune smile down on yours

beautiful family ....godspeed to your sun

[WCGreen]

59. I am weeping that the sons and daughters of

people like us have to fight......

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

60. My thoughts and prayers

are with you and your family.

[xmas74]

61. Good luck to you.

Post if he needs wet wipes or anything else. I'm sure that more than a few would be happy to help out.

[arcane1]

62. ((((((((HUGS))))))))

:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:

[LittleClarkie]

63. Lighting a virtual candle in his name

And sending a prayer up as well.

Here's the link to the virtual candle site

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/enter.cfm

It helped me to light a candle there during the Cindy vigil when I couldn't get out of work.

[I Have A Dream]

98. LittleClarkie, this is a wonderful site. I also lit one for her son.

Thank you for the information. It was a very powerful experience.

(Initials ihad at virtual site.)

[ellenfl]

100. thanks for the site. eom

[bluestateguy]

64. I am so sorry

We are all here fighting to bring him and the other 160,000 troops in Iraq home safe.

[etherealtruth]

65. Your family is incredibly beautiful!

Your love for them is as beautiful as they are.

I will keep your son in my heart as I do my own children. He WILL be safe!

Please keep us all apprised of his activities.

:hug: :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug: :hug:

[Misunderestimator]

66. My god! You are all gorgeous! Can we help you hide him or something?

[mahina]

67. I promise prayers and nonstop work from here to bring responsibility back

to our govt. God bless you and your beautiful kids and family, much much aloha to you all.

[Maddy McCall]

69. Binka, you have a beautiful family. I am praying that your family circle

will remain whole, that you son will come home safely.

:hug:

[ET Awful]

71. I'm sending positive vibes to you and your beautiful family.

To your son, keep your head down and stay safe.

To the sisters and brother, keep the positive attitude and give your brother as much support as you can possibly muster.

To you Binka I just give as much positive energy and suport as I can through a computer.

:hug:

(and can I add that baby sister is one of the cutest kids I've seen in a LONG time, those eyes are something else :)).

:grouphug: to your entire family.

[Mikimouse]

72. May he be protected by a guardian angel and return whole and safely

I will keep him and all the others in my thoughts.

[lostnfound]

73. Dear God

Please hold this young man safe in the palm of your hand until he is safely back in the arms of his family.

Dear Binka, I have a little boy who looks to be the age of your youngest girl. I can't understand what you are going through right now, but imagining the mountain of fear from the top of the hill on which I stand is pretty damned intimidating. Hold on and have faith that this will work out. Plenty of young men come back safe and stronger afterwards; we DUers will be praying that your son will be one of the millions whose time in the service leaves them with courage and discipline, and no serious scars.

Hugs from me, and I wish I could send a guardian angel for each of you, you and your son.

[Draill]

74. Add my protective thoughts

and support. Hang in there, Binka. Many people have your family in their thoughts. :hug:

[City Lights]

75. Oh Binka, I'm so sorry.

For your son I wish a safe return, and for your family I wish strength to keep it together til he comes home.

:grouphug: from my family to yours.

[BattyDem]

76. Binka ... hugs to you and your family

:hug:
Your son will remain in my thoughts. May he always stay safe. Please thank him for his service. :patriot:

[Fleshdancer]

77. When you get an address to send letters to, we'll send him care packages

If he ever needs anything, please ask DU. We'll do everything we can to help.

I can't help but cry for you Binka. What I'm about to say will seem impossible, but try your best to focus on the fact that more soldiers are coming home alive than not. Your son will be surrounded by other soldiers who want the same thing - to make sure their unit survives this. He is not alone.

In the meantime, we're all here for you. If/when you need to voice your fears or vent your anger, please do not hesitate.

[Waya]

82. Will keep your son .....

and your entire family in my thoughts and prayers - may Creator put an end to this insanity and bring them all back home safely soon.

[LSparkle]

78. God grant you peace -- Please Lord make the war end

This is really beyond us; the people in charge are not being guided by anything but their own hunger for power. I pray that a force more powerful than any of these chickenhawk warmongerers intercedes and brings this awful war to an end, and above all, brings your precious son home to you safe and sound. Hopefully our tears and candles will move the universe toward righting itself and giving us a chance at peace. Please know that you and your son are in our thoughts and prayers ...

[eleny]

79. What a very beauitful family

I'm sending you all {{{{{hugs}}}}

[ulysses]

81. may he come back to you safely and soon. n/t

[flamingyouth]

83. Holding warm and good thoughts for all of you.

May he return home safely soon. :hug:

[Ilsa]

85. Oh Binka Sweetie, I am so sorry.

I'll be hoping for the best for him and all the other soldiers there. This is so sad. I wish he didn't have to go.

Bring the troops home NOW!

[proud patriot]

86. Sending you all the strength I can muster Binka

:loveya:

[OhioChick]

87. You have a lovely family.........

my prayers are with all of you.

[cbear70]

88. hugs Binka

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

[SalmonChantedEvening]

89. Love and warm thoughts for you and your family

:hug:

[all.of.me]

90. i send positive thoughts with him

what a gorgeous family!

[caligirl]

92. Binka your oldest sons picture is so

familiar around our house. Husband in the MCorps for 22 years. Today will pass and each day will pass until your son safely returns. Your pain is palpable even through these postings. I hope you will come here whenever you need to get a hug and find reassurance that you and your other children will be ok.

Your other children must be going through a lot of pain now as well. Please let them know they are being thought of here. I hope they will be active in writing to him and keep all his letters to them. There isn't anyway to get around the pain this causes. Just one day at a time.

I always wondered how anyone can so easily send anothers child to war. Having lived among so many young marines I know they are driven and brave. But still it is a horrible thing.

I wish we could surround you and your family in comfort and warmth and spare you this pain.

[leftchick]

94. My prayers are with all of your babies

especially your boy put in harms way. May he come safely back to hug and kiss you soon. It should not be this way. :(

Binka you have a beautiful family and good golly all those children look like their cute mama! :)

I promise you will all find strength in each other over the next long hard days. You can do it! :)

[The Backlash Cometh]

95. We're all with you, Binka.

Thank God you're posting from a place where you have the freedom to post personal photos. Obviously not in the U.S.

[I Have A Dream]

96. I'm so sorry, Binka. My heart aches for you.

Please know that we're doing everything in our power to get this illegal war to end as soon as possible. We will keep fighting for you and your family, and we will be here for you whenever you need us! Scream in your posts if it helps -- we'll be here to listen. You and your family are not alone -- your DU family is here for you.

I ask the Universe to protect your beautiful son while he's away from your arms and that he's able to make a positive difference in the world while he's away. I pray for his safe return and for his physical and mental health upon his return. (This or something better for the highest good of all involved.)

:hug:

[DixieDem]

97. Chin up! We're gunna work on...

getting him out of there! So hang in there Mom! We've got your back!

PS You're family is BEAUTIFUL! Betcha never heard that before, right? :hi:

[ClayZ]

99. Sending positive energy your way!

I think their is a big change in the country. The sleepy ones are waking up.

I was a Navy mom. My son is out of the Navy now. He is a firefighter.

Keep sending care packages and writing letters! That is how I stayed sane. Find a local "Stand for Peace" and join up!

We go every week with peace flags, posters and kids. Lots of veterans are joining us!

I am lighting a candle for you and your beautiful family!


Peace

[ellenfl]

101. i also lit a candle at littleclarkie's site wishing for your son's safe

return. we're here when you need us.

ellen fl ('elg' at virtual site)

[FreedomAngel82]

102. I'm sorry hon

:( :hug: I hope they stay safe!

[Twist_U_Up]

105. Hope

Hope, like the gleaming taper's light,
Adorns and cheers our way;
And still, as darker grows the night,
Emits a brighter ray.

Oliver Goldsmith

[me b zola]

106. A beautiful family, inside & out

We are here for you, your Ben, and your younger children. Please make sure you pass along how much we care about each of them, and if they need anything it's only a keystroke away :hug:

I will think of all of you, especially Ben, everyday. I am sending positive thoughts for all of you. O8)

We will do all that we can to bring them home NOW!

[latebloomer]

107. We'll be holding you ALL in our thoughts and prayers

As a mother I can only imagine how difficult this must be.

Keep the faith, and surround him in your mind with the white light of protection and safety.

Love to all

:hug:

[pitohui]

sorry to hear that, sending my best wishes & good vibes EOM

,

[roguevalley]

110. we will send him things if you keep us informed. We will pray for

all of you and the others. Just know things have changed. I hug you from Alaska, Binka. I hug you and your boy.

[NuttyFluffers]

108. Loves and prayers, dear.

Now off for all of us to work harder to pressure our representatives to represent us. And to inform the people around us about this horrible war.

:hug:

[knitter4democracy]

109. May God (or whatever you believe) bless you and keep you

May He make His face to shine upon you
And be gracious unto you (and all you love).

Oh, how scary and sad all at the same time. Sorry if the prayer of blessing offended--not my intention--it was the first thing that came to my head.

The second one was, does he need anything? I'm working up a helmet liner for another DUer's son in Iraq for winter and night guard duty, and I'm going to try to start a knitting and crochet group for the troops here. I could add your son to the list for a helmet liner, a pair of socks or something. It's not much, but it's what I can offer.

[Daphne08]

111. Binka, please accept my

hug. :pals:

I have two sons of my own and can only imagine how you must be feeling now.

[Geoff R. Casavant]

112. Too many replies to read them all . . .

So I will just add my own heartfelt prayers for his safe and speedy return.

Semper Fi.

[GreenPartyVoter]

113. What a beautiful family!! *hugs and prayers that you all remain safe*

[lolamio]

114. (((((Hugs)))))

You have a beautiful family. I am keeping your son (and all of you) in my thoughts.

[emdee]

115. I'll be praying for you all. nt

nt

[txindy]

116. For you and yours...

:grouphug:

[GOPisEvil]

117. My best wishes to you and your beautiful family.

May your son return safely.

[Midlodemocrat]

118. Dearest Binka.

I am weeping as I read this thread. Your heart, which is so full of goodness and light, must be breaking with worry.

I will pray for your child and all your family while Benjamin is in Iraq. God willing, he won't be there long, and in harm's way even less.

May the good Lord see fit to bless him and keep him safe, and keep his family free from worry and consternation.

God Bless.

[Missy Vixen]

119. Benjamin, come home safely to your mom and your family

Binka, I will say a prayer for your son and the son of every other DU'er tonight, especially the ones fighting this insane war.

I also promise that I will do whatever I can to see this war over, and the loved ones of those soldiers able to hug their loved ones once more.

Julie

[brook]

120. I will keep

you and yours in my heart. I can't tell you how angry it makes me that any mother's son must go off to fight this illegal, stinking 'war'.

[proud2BlibKansan]

121. Oh God

I wish I could think of something to say.

:hug:

[Left coast liberal]

123. Don't let him go...

I'm sorry. So sorry. But don't let him go. No one should grow up witnessing what he will have to see.

I just heard a song for Cindy on the Mike Malloy show and I'm still crying.

Put your foot down and don't let him go.

[MadisonProgressive]

124. My heart just sank into my stomach

I feel just sick. May your son be safe and may your family stay whole.

[GoldenOldie]

125. I am fearful that my grandson will follow.

You have a beautiful family Binka. You sound proud as well you should be and know that you and your son have the full backing/support of DU and those Americans that love our country.

I only hope that my first born grandson will make good decisions and that whatever he chooses that he have the support such as DU.

God Bless our Troops.

[deadparrot]

126. kick.

:kick:

[porkrind]

127. (((binka)))

What a great looking family! My best vibes to you and your son, I hope he will be safe. We have to stop this crazy war ASAP! I wish you and him (and my kids) the best.
:grouphug:

[Name removed]

128. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[ourbluenation]

129. Is there time for him to back out???

Contientious Objection an option????

Keeping him and you in my thoughts and prayers...

[Anywho6]

130. Peace and comfort to you and yours, Binka... n/t

[friesianrider]

131. What a GORGEOUS bunch you've got there!

The guys are all incredibly handsome (let me know if they need a date, lol!) and the girls are all adorable.

You are in my thoughts and prayers, my friend. He'll come home safe. :) :hug:

[sonias]

132. Binka I wish your son a safe trip home

I pray that he will return safe to you and your family. Tell him to take care of himself and to always think of home, to get him through the days of his tour. And you keep strong and keep fighting to end this war.

Love and peace
Sonia

[AmBlue]

133. Dear, dear Binka...

Your family is beautiful and my heart breaks for all that you will go through waiting for Benjamin to come home safely. May angels surround and watch over him. Me and my boys, ages 7 and 4, will add him to our soldier prayer list. I can't imagine what you must be feeling, but if I could take some of it away from you, I would. Peace. :hug:

Can we send him care packages? After all he's one of ours.... part of the DU family.

[ngGale]

134. ((((((Hugs))))))

Binka, for you and your beautiful family.

:grouphug:

[BikeWriter]

135. You've got beautiful children, Lady! I see where they got their looks...

Hang in there. My folks had a rough time of it during VietNam, but I came home to them. Your Son will too.

[fortyfeetunder]

136. you deserve a hug

I hope your pride and joy has a safe voyage and comes home to hug his Mama.
Until then here is a hug from me :hug:

[anarchy1999]

137. Love you lots Binka, and to all your family,

You are in all of our thoughts.

I'd like all of DU to know that Binka and her family gave a incredibly generous gift in support of Cindy and the efforts of the Crawford Peace House, in the very early days, to support Cindy, the families, the volunteers, the media and everyone else that have come and are coming to Crawford.

Many others have given much and are just as special, I just felt the need at this moment to let you all know just a little bit more. All I'll say is she and her family might be known as the "tent angels". No, not the "Taj Mahtent", but one that has been there much longer.

I'll leave it to you, Binka, if you care to share anymore. I hope I didn't share too much.

We love you and know how many of us are here for you all, anytime, day or night.

Peace,
anarchy1999

[Binka]

142. Thanks For The Love Sugar

Will somebody please send me about 15 pounds? My pants are falling off! The "have your son go to Iraq" diet really stinks. My hair is starting to fall out and he hasn't even left yet.

Peyton giving me some LOVE



Ben and I at graduation



Winnie and crew at Peyton's B-Day



God please don't make me cry anymore my heart just can't take it.

Thank YOU EVERYBODY who has shared their love here. This helps more than you can imagine. :loveya:

[anarchy1999]

144. It's on it's way. How would you like it. Straight turbenado,

milk chocolate, dark, what would do you like most. Smile Binka, I know it is trite, but speak believing.

If you only worry about what is to come and how bad it might be, you can bring it in.

Focus instead on knowing, passionately, as Ben's mom, that it is going to be okay. I don't have a clue, just do it

Peace,
anarchy1999

[Generic Other]

138. (((((((HUGS)))))))

What a beautiful family.

[spuddonna]

139. Binka, your children are so beautiful...

I feel sick...

We will pray for your son and your family, and please keep us posted if we can send care packages his way. I've been looking at a few sites to see how to do this...I've gotta do something...

I feel so helpless - I can't imagine how you must feel... I have a son, 7 (almost 8), and daughter, (6)... You let your children go, and watch them succeed, and fail, and you find you can only protect them so much. I remember being pregnant with my son, and I asked my mother how much your life changes with kids, and she told me, "You will never be the same. You have lived your life and had good times and bad, but when your child is hurt, your heart will be broken in ways you never imagined. You will learn that being a parent means having your heart broken over and over, in good ways and bad."

I told her, "Gee, thanks, Mom! You could have said, "Get a dog!" when dh and I said we were going to try to have kids!!" :)

I wish we could stop this war now... please know that there are so many people here that are sending their love and prayers your way...

Sending peace and love to you, and your family...
:pals:

[enigmatic]

140. I'm sending your family as the good vibes I can muster

Stay strong, and know that you have family here that you can lean on:)

[w8liftinglady]

143. Adding him to my little circle of nightly hugs and prayers

there are a lot of us who have family members in Iraq.I know how you feel,and so does Dogday.You can PM either one of us,and if you want to email me -I'll be happy to talk to you.Your kids are precious-and so are mine.Bless you ,Honey-we know what you are feeling,and it helps to let it out...stay in touch..

[huskerlaw]

146. Binka, I'm so sorry...

My heart goes out to you and your family. I will keep Benjamin in my thoughts.

Thank you for posting. We all care very deeply and are here for you whenever you need us. :hug:

[watercolors]

147. Send lots of care packages to him

our grandson returned last june from Iraq, said they made his stay more bearable. He is AF and was station at Iraq air port, well he was sent back this july. He was due home in Sept , wedding plans made, now all has been canceled.He is now in Kuwait, cannot tell us more, other than lots going on at airports. We think they are preparing for pullout in near future. I hope so! Be strong , It was hard on his mother first trip, we cried alot too. I hope he can call or E-mail you, Charles kept us informed and it helped.

[MADem]

152. Small, frequent packages, rather than big ones

There is a size limit. It is hot as hell there in summer, but very cold at night in winter. He will be able to tell you what he needs--it all depends on his facilities support situation and where he will be posted. Email can be tough and sporadic, you often have to wait in line at places where there are few computers for many people. It will depend on where he ends up.

As for airports, the seaports are vulnerable (witness the recent attack at Aqaba, which fortunately missed a couple of USN vessels offloading in port). Gotta keep those supply lines open.

Hang in there, Binka. It sucks.

Are you from a military environment? Is there a Family Service/Support Center nearby?

[npincus]

148. You have a lovely, lovely family and I am praying for your son

to return safely.

Does he support "the mission"? What are his thoughts?

I have immense respect for him and your family- you are paying the ultimate price for the lies, arrogance, and incompetence of these criminals in the WH.

All the best to you and yours.

[PerpetuallyDazed]

149. I'm so sorry!!!

For anyone who has to go through this, it's absolute hell. If you can look at it this way, though, it's really just one long waiting game. That's the hardest part--WAITING for your life to resume some semblance of normalcy again.

My fiance is in the Army... He'll be driving trucks in Iraq... :eyes:
Anyways, we're totally spazzing out because he leaves for his station tomorrow! It majorly sucks... :(

Here's my sweetie:



My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones. Stay strong!!! I'm under the firm persuasion that everything happens for a reason. I just have to keep repeating that to myself.

[H2O Man]

150. There really aren't words

that are able to convey how difficult this is. Nor to communicate how difficult it is for a family. I will be praying for you and your children. And, like many others on DU, I am always willing to talk if you want to talk.

[dogday]

151. You and I have alot in common

Both have Sons who are on their way to Iraq, mine will be 23 in October. Both Sons have baby sisters much younger than themselves.

People don't realize how painful this Cindy Sheehan story is for some of us who have to worry and think every day that our Son could be another Casey. I think it is great the story is getting told, it is just that it forces me to think about Iraq a lot more now than I did before.

Prayers and faith will see our boys through and you and I will see each other through this....

A big hug for you!

[jean]

153. What a noble, honorable young man, Binka. You must be an excellent Mom

- all of your kids are absolutely radiant. It looks like they inherited that from their Mom - look at you!

Please hold on and take strength from us. I'll be praying for your son. He WILL survive.

:hug:

[fooj]

154. Binka- Sending lots of love and good vibes your way.

We are all here for you! We're family and we take care of each other!:grouphug:

Peace.

[GOPFighter]

155. I'm a parent of a son - I know how you must feel

Be proud, be positive, and count the days. Grit your teeth. Vent. Post here when you get anxious. We'll help you through it.

He will come home safely.