It is a portion of a National Public Radio (NPR)interview between a female broadcasterand US Marine Corps General Reinwaldwho was about to sponsor a Boy Scout Troopvisiting his military installation.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:So, General Reinwald, what things are you going to teachthese young boys when they visit your base?

GENERAL REINWALD:We're going to teach them climbing, canoeing, archery, and shooting.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:Shooting! That's a bit irresponsible, isn't it?

GENERAL REINWALD:I don't see why, they'll be properly supervised on the rifle range.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:Don't you admit that this is a terribly dangerousactivity to be teaching children?

GENERAL REINWALD:I don't see how. We will be teaching them proper rifle disciplinebefore they even touch a firearm.

FEMALE INTERVIEWER:But you're equipping them to become violent killers.

GENERAL REINWALD:Well, you're equipped to be a prostitute, but you're not one, are you?


The radio went silent and the interview ended.

Stronger

Every bad word spoken to me or about me has made me stronger.
Every dirty look sent in my direction has made me stronger.
Every mean and snotty comment disguised as a joke or a compliment has made me stronger. Every fake friend and every failed relationship has made me stronger.
Every mishap, disappointment, and accident that I have encountered (and endured) has made me stronger.
Say what you will, do what you wish.
I will not let you affect me.
Because I am strong.
And you will make me stronger.

She smiles, but no one can see her.
She cries, but no one can hear her.
She breathes, but no one can feel her.
If she was gone, would anyone miss her?