Quote:
Originally Posted by R3V3LATIONS
....after "leaving SF" or retiring from the military, what options did you have open, or life paths (occupations, activities, hobby adaptation etc) did you take on and how do you think your being on the teams affected.....
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This question is often asked of all young men on the cusp of manhood. It is in these moments that represents a transition period from one point in your life to that of another. It can be a wonderous adventure, but also a time of serious pondering and reflection. I do not take your question lightly, and will do my very best to answer in a manner conducive to learning and productivity.
All things come to an end, be it, childhood, summer camp, your first girl-friend and perhaps your best friend saying, she doesn't want to see you anymore. It can be emotional. Your educational path will also cause reflection in choice and options for occupation.
For me, Special Forces was the accumulation of childhood dreams of manhood. It represented my path in obtaining the 'Warrior Spirit' of those who served before me and my admittance to a franternity of greater men than I.
Special Forces embodied complete service to my fellowman, to free the enslaved, to liberate the downtrodden who are opressed. Special Forces allowed me to champion women and children worldwide, to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, to lift the spirits of those who have been denied opportunities to live enriched lives.
Special Forces service does not end with the turning in of equipment, weapon or discharge papers. If I have been true to my calling as ZonieDiver calls it, if I have truely learned the occupation of service, then I am of value to teach my craft to those who will serve long after I leave this mortal existance.
Do not think of your life as a continum of career choices, occupations, etc., you will have many. Think of your life as a means of providing service to others. Measure your life, as, "What good have I done? What service have I provided?"
For many of my SF brothers, a series of career themes continue to be evident. They all remain educators, teachers, mentors, gift givers. Some are artists, chefs, knife makers, mechanics. Some are authors, most are fathers, brothers, a few remain husbands and sons. Some live to be old, some die well before their time. All are loved and none will ever be forgotten.
Choose now, today, the man you want to be. Allow yourself to be open to opportunities and the path will rise to your feet.
In the end, and if you've prepared wisely, you will have lived an enriched life.
I surround myself with greatness, I live in a majestic realm.