..because I think everything she just told me is something that everyone needs to hear. That they are loved, that they are perfect just as they are.

“There is a fire in your belly; embrace that fire, embrace that feeling and know that that is what is going to make you great. Because you are going to be great. We might not know at what yet, but my god, you’re going to be great.”

I pass it onto you all here. We are going to be great, my god, we are going to be great.

11/11/11: remembrance and respect for the past, belief for the present, hope and courage for the future.

In 5 weeks time, my brother will emerge from the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, as a 2nd Lieutenant in the British Army.

On this day of all days, and on this coming Remembrance Sunday, we remember those who gave their today for our tomorrow. This year, I think particularly about Alan, who in 2 short years time will be half way through his first tour of Aghanistan.

He holds those who have gone before him in such high regard; he believes heart and soul in what he is doing; and he lives with hope and courage for what lies ahead. Though fear grips me from all sides and tears well in my eyes as I write this at the very thought of him putting himself in the greatest danger, on this day and at 11am on Sunday I will not only remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, but I will look upon my brother with the greatest pride and awe for the path he has chosen, for the vows he has taken and for the belief and courage that carry him.

He looks upon the world and sees a cause worth fighting for.

<3