Happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July to everyone! Each year, this day brings mixed emotions for me. I am always thankful for my family and how blessed I am to have Jess and Reagan in my life. This time also brings the feeling of regret for leaving the Marine Corps. Most of the year, I stay so busy and pre-occupied that those thoughts don't really have time to make thier way into the front of my mind. However, on this day, I see pictures like the ones below and it makes me question my decision to ever cut ties with the military.

I think we are the most fortunate counrty in the world to have the type of selflessness and sacrifice instilled in our youth that points them in the direction of military service. I always wonder who would be taking over for me and who would be leading my Marines on thier many deployments after I was gone. The truth is that I am sure that person is just as capable, if not more capable than I was, to lead these young warriors through the tough times that lay ahead for them. This also makes me wonder why do these thoughts only happen on days like today? How can I overlook the sacrifices made by so many on a daily basis when I fully understand what they are going through? We all get so consumed with what we feel are “important”, “life changing” occurences when in reality, they aren't that important at all. I stress when I miss my workout when I fully understand that it is 120 degrees and a group of Marines are going on their 4th foot patrol of the day with 70# packs and they haven't showered in a month and I am upset about a workout…..I remember listening to my Marines talk about how they wondered if people back home had any idea of what we went through on a daily basis. It wasn't as if they were saying that thay had it so bad or they thought that they deserved more recognition for what they were doing, it was more just a legitimate question as to how much those at home really knew of what went on. The answer, I realized after I got out of the Marine Corps, was that no one had any idea of what they were going through. I found that out because I understood what they went through but still was/am so focused on what I am doing now, I don't take the time to appreciate it. These young men have put their lives on hold to fly 5,000+ miles away so that we have the right to say stupid things on facebook and speak our mind about our beliefs.

I say all that to say this. I can't thank all of you enough to have created such an amazing place for my family and I to spend my time. Sure, I have doubts about my decision to leave the Marines, but getting to come in everyday and train you guys and watch you all get better is the most amazing job I could ever have dreamed of. You all have made the transition over the past few years much easier than it would have been if I would have chosen a different path. Everyday, you guys come in and work your tails off in 100 degree heat, not complaining for a second. I hope you all understand that this is not normal, what you guys do on a daily basis is NOT normal, it is extraordinary. Continue doing what you do and if you ever find yourself feeling a little sorry for yourself, remember, there are people out there that have it much worse than we ever will. Celebrate this day and be proud of what you are doing to improve your quality of life through health and fitness.