Celebrate Fourth by writing letters to American soldiers

I remember my first time away from my parents, alone and scared in a hospital room after being hit in the eye with a stick during a family camping trip. I was only four, but the memories are sharp and clear — and I still hate hospitals as a result.

I remember going off to college, excited and nervous, ready to test my wings but unsure about leaving the safety and security found at home.

Common experiences, similar to those experienced by just about everyone.

Imagine being a soldier, far away from home. As we prepare for the Fourth of July holiday, imagine our country's sons and daughters serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world. They're scared, worried about families left at home, and a host of other thoughts and feelings that make a youthful trip to the hospital or the journey to college pale in comparison.

This year, as you enjoy an extra day off, light a few fireworks and kick back to watch the Sandpoint Lions Club's awesome parade, why not add another item to your "to do" list — send a letter to a soldier serving in the military. There's "Operation Dear Abby" and the "My Soldier" pen pal program.

Forget whether you support the war or not. Remember, instead, how it felt to get a care package from home right before finals — filled with chocolate chip cookies, a "I love you" note from mom and silly little items that probably didn't cost more than a $1.63 combined. It gave you a lifeline home, a warm hug and the sense that you weren't alone in the world.

This year, why not send a letter or "adopt" a soldier far from home?

"Operation Dear Abby" can be found online at http://anyservicemember.navy.mil/ or you can go to http://www.americasupportsyou.mil/. Either works and is a great way to let the troops know you are thinking about them.

To participate in the "My Soldier" pen pal program, you can go to www.mysoldier.com and register to adopt a soldier seeking a pen pal friend.

Caroline Lobsinger is the managing editor of The Daily Bee.