Sharing one lesson at a time
Like anything in life, there are always going to be benefits and drawbacks. The military is no exception. The military can be efficient, but it is far from perfect. Every branch has its different functions and place in the bigger picture. Every branch is top notch at what they do, but infallible they are not. …
From the moment that you get off the bus on that first day to the day you either separate or retire from your military service, there is no such thing as private property. Personal belongings are a myth. Everything is subject to inspection or review and even if you are considered proficient when it comes …
Continue reading "Lesson 8: There is no such thing as private property"
If only I had a dollar for every time I, or my colleagues, asked “why are we doing it this way?” or “What is the purpose of this action, other than compromising security?” I assure you, there would be no need for me to ever work another day in my life. For nearly 23 years …
This is a lesson that you learn on day one of military basic training. The instructors are trained to put you through one of the most uncomfortable situations of your life. It is a part of an effort to weed out the members who cannot handle the stresses that accompany military service and lifestyle. To …
Continue reading "Lesson 6: There is such a thing as stupid questions"
The overall concept of “One team, one fight,” is a good one, in my opinion. In theory, if an entire organization were able to consistently operate using that philosophy as the backbone of their functioning, they would be unstoppable. Sadly, it has been my experience that no organization is able to fully implement it as …
Continue reading "Lesson 5: One team, one fight, when convenient"
Please don’t misunderstand the title. This is not a gender specific concept. This is just what we used to say in the military about the person who engages in any kind of unacceptable behavior. We all know at least one, and a time has arisen at some point in your life, whether you know it …
Life isn’t always fair. Things don’t always go the way you want them to. Movies, in most cases, tend to let good triumph over evil, but real life will teach you that is not always, if ever, the case. The military is no exception. There are always more questions than answers. Why is he getting …
Plenty of times in life will arise when you are asked a question or are provided with the opportunity to speak on a subject. Perhaps you know the answer. You may think you know what to say and you might even be right, but that is not always what matters. There are times when the …
Continue reading "Lesson 2: Learn when to keep your mouth shut."
The first day of basic training is guaranteed to be one of the worst days of your life. The hours are intensely long, you are surrounded by hundreds of men and women, most of whom you don’t know or have never seen before, you are in several places throughout the day and night that are …
Continue reading "Lesson 1: No matter what your background, everyone starts as a rainbow."
We are all the sum of our experiences. Whether it is a success or failure, these experiences act as a lesson that can influence future behaviors. I hate it when people say that there is a set number of rules, personal attributes, or controllable characteristics, that could make you a better friend, more likable person, …
