Afghanistan as adventure?

I have a casual acquaintance with a young man who recently made a decision that floored me. This 20-something husband and father decided to give up his cushy corporate job to join the U.S. Army, knowing that he would surely be sent to Afghanistan, where U.S. troops are still dying at a rate of more than one per day.

I ran into him after I heard the news and before he left for the new gig. Determined not to preach, I simply said, "I hear you'll be leaving your job."

His face lit up and he excitedly said, "Yes! I'm joining the Army and going to Afghanistan! I need an adventure!" He was all smiles.

I could only wish him luck.