Carry On, Meagan!

Yesterday, Connie, mother, and I saw our one and only child, Lt. Meagan Belk, U.S. Army, off into the world to become an independent young adult. Not that she hasn't already had to be exceptionally responsible and independent in her role as a cadet at the United States Military Academy at West Point, but one that is now out of the confines of the comfort zone that was West Point. Meagan now gets to make her own decisions in life, good and bad, and hopefully learn from those not so desirable. However, as a proud dad, I must admit that I have very little doubts my wonderful daughter will do quite well.

The next six months will find her back at West Point as a military employee there, completing her physical therapy on her surgically-repaired knee, and then on to Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD for office basic training in Ordnance. From there, it's South Korea for a minimum two-year post experience. Somewhere in between all her activity, we'll make every effort on both our parts to visit as often as possible.

The best to you in your new life, Meagan! Your mother and I, while a bit sad at the ever-emptying nest, are so proud of you, it's hard to describe in words. May God bless you, always. Carry on, Meagan! : )

My Dearest Darling Daughter ...

Congratulations, Lieutenant Constance Meagan Belk!

My dearest Meagan:

I do not even know where or how to begin to tell you of the immense pride I have in your most stellar accomplishment yet. It nearly takes my breath away - it certainly boggles my mind - to think of the hurdles you overcame to get to West Point and the stamina and resolve to see your education and training for the military while there. Your graduation simply marks the end of one era and the beginning of another.

You, my dear, are now a West Point graduate! You are now an alumni of one of the greatest institutions in the world! When this all sinks in, that's going to one warm, fuzzy feeling you'll love having, I'm sure.

You took the road of high morals, high principles, and high expectations. And, I am confident that you've only yet just begun. Lest I remind you that of 12 applicants to consider per cadet offered a chance at West Point, they decided on you as one of those chosen, precious few. Why? You are a empathetic, yet demanding leader in every sense of the word, so very smart in every way, no matter how you felt at times when competing with America's best and brightest (yes, you were among them), possess a conscience envied by many, and a healthy dose of confidence to carry on, always.

You are my pride and joy, Meagan. I sometimes wonder how I got the honor of being so deserving of such a wonderful daughter as you. I'm glad, though, that I have the privilege of being your father. I have and always will thank God everyday for that honor.

What your future holds is now up to you, as it always has been. You've handled it all so well. I'm confident whatever path you decide to take from this point forward will be one that you feel is in your best interest and those around you.

Not just because you my daughter, but I must tell you that you are among one of the finest, dearest, and most gregarious young ladies I've ever had the pleasure of being around.

“May your path come easy (or as tough as you want it to be). May trouble not come your way, ever. May you go with no sorrow. May happiness (always) be your guide. And when we meet again, May your heart (always) be filled with joy.”

TO “MY PRINCESS”, forever and always,

Daddy_.