Dearest Abigail,
Today I learned the truth about this unjust war. I’m a proud soldier who vowed to defend his country against her enemies, but I now realize that the real enemy sits at home. Our leaders have betrayed us and used us to fight their personal battles over their lust for power and greed.
At first I thought I’d silently disappear and send for you when the time was right, but have now decided to stand up for what I believe, in front of my country, its citizens and the world.
Forgive me for the path I have chosen, for our life together now seems like a fading dream. Forgive me, for your hero will now be slain with the words, traitor and coward.
I hope desperately that I may speak to you again but I fear this may be the last letter that I’m able to pen for a long time.
If you do not hear from me again, know this, sweet Abigail, my heart beats in sync with yours, now and forever.
Yours eternally,
Elliot James McLeod.
I didn’t want to submit to the army and then, on the day of judgment, have God say to me, ‘Why did you do that?’ This life is a trial, and you realize that what you do is going to be written down for Judgment Day – Muhammad Ali (boxer)
Dollops of Heedful Ramblings 
Sad S but I think his Abigail would understand. There are things in life we need to stand up for, and we can’t back down or take the easy way. They are defining moments, amd sometimes as in this case, they probably won’t end well. But I’m very sure Abigail would be proud.
Absolutely! It’s very easy to ignore such moments in your life but takes guts to stand up and stray from the crowd. It won’t be smooth sailing but like you said, I’m sure Abigail would be proud! Thanks for your comment! ☺
Sadly, this applies to so many wars, including almost all in the last 26 years.
Well written piece.
I have to ask, is there significance in the name Elliot James McLeod?
Unfortunately so.
Thank you.
No, just a randomly chosen name (though McLeod came to me as I’m a Highlander fan)
There can be only one!
I looked to see if there was a specific person called Elliot James McLeod as well 🙂
To stand up against your country for what you believe is the truth and justice is one of the hardest things for any person to do. A very good story with such sadness.
Very true! It’s sad that people think that standing up for justice (even if it’s against your own country’s unjust policies) makes you a traitor. Whereas the leaders who make such policies should be the ones looked upon in such a manner….Thank you! ☺
I agree with previous comments. This often happens. The valor of your hero is to be commended. Many things are done in the name of honor when they are anything but honorable. It’s hard to live with a guilty conscience. Some people don’t seem to have a conscience and are just guided by pride and greed. Good writing, SW. —- Suzanne
Well said! Yes, if only people, (especially our leaders) actually listened to their conscience instead of arrogantly sweeping it aside, then the world would indeed be a better place. Thank you so much for your comment! Glad you liked it! ☺
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