This is my last post from Iraq, for this tour.  I will be back to writing again next week from Fort Campbell.

There are many things that I can focus my attention on; I just brought September’s Wizard Magazine the other day–there are several things in there, but they can wait.  I want to, however, focus on what is important.

I write about comic books because they are not real. 

War is real and Religion is real, both occupy most of my time. The truth is I need a break from it all. 

I am a Chaplain–ministry to soldiers consumes me, it is more than just an occupation for me; it is my identity.  But, I need space from it. 

I am an Army Officer–I am in meetings about war everyday, it is all around me.  I need space from that too, and I have to be very careful that I don’t inadvertently violate Operational Security (OPSEC) putting soldiers lives in danger.

Reading comic books (DC, or dare I say, Marvel) gives me this space.  They take me to a place where the good always win, even through their struggles.  They also give me a connection to life in the states, which at times seems far away.  They give me a focus on something that is completely job un-related.  They are entertaining and fun.  They also don’t stop, as long as I can get new books, read about them online, see the TV series, or simply dream about the heroes–they don’t stop.

I want to thank those who send comic books to the troops–for me they are a true blessing.  I remember waiting for weeks for the first shipment to arrive.  And I thank you for reading my blog.  Hopefully, you will see me develop and become better informed when I get home.  I look forward to spending that time to tell you my personal perspective. 

“Expect No Mercy”