“He hath made everything beautiful in His time…” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV) I looked at you sitting beside me at the dinner table last night and marveled at what a beautiful and courageous young man you have become. Thanks to all who love you, your eighteen years will hold you strong in truth, wisdom, and honor. Embarking on this new journey in the navy will make your path a struggle at times, but never forget that love is stronger than fear and doubt. You are going where many men have gone before, and you will be held on God’s chosen path for you with your belief in Him.

Let the words of “Eternal Father, Strong to Save,” the navy hymn, become a part of your inner being because that it is where you will find peace and joy and the will to honor all of us with your service. There is no greater deed that you can do for us.

“Eternal Father, strong to save,

Whose arm has bound the restless wave,

Who bade the mighty ocean deep its own appointed limits keep:

Oh, hear us when we cry to thee for those in peril on the sea.”

We have shared more than music together; you have taught me many things about young people.  I think of you as my son, and that is a gift I will always cherish. My prayers are with you, Matthew, as you board God’s naval ships, and may you always know that He walks beside you wherever you go. May the peace of the Lord be with you.

Anna Hartt