Live Life Forward
A novel by Mrs. Richardson's
Creative Writing Class
St. Clair County High School

A letter excerpt: Live Life
Forward
contributed by Mrs. Brenda Simmons
Honor's English 12 and compiled from the written memoirs of Mrs. Simmons' father
-- Major Richard F. Bubb
November 14, 1941
Dear Will,
How is everything back home? I hope you're looking
after Caroline for me. How is the team doing? Remember to keep your
elbow in when you shoot and when you get frustrated just shake it off.
I did a really stupid thing the other day. This sailor
had some whiskey and he told me he would give it to me if I dove off the
Arizona. Well, you know how I can't turn down a good dare, and the whiskey
didn't sound bad either. I took the bet and I climbed to the top of the
ship. Everyone kept saying how crazy I was because the water was shallow
and the ship was so high. I hit the water so hard I thought I was a goner.
I did one somersault after another in that water and when I finally stopped
turning, I started clawing my way back to the surface. I was a stupid fool
and could have been killed over a simple bottle of whiskey. I hope you
learn from my mistakes and don't ever put yourself in that kind of position.
Well, things are getting serious here. They got us
doing drills night and day, rain or shine. I sure do miss sleeping in on
Saturdays and waking up to Caroline's bacon and eggs. I can't say much,
but I don't think it will be much longer until we have to get in this war.
I guess I'll hear from you later. Send my love to the family.
Your brother,
Luke
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