When I took my vows it was more than just about cutting mysaelf off socially. It was more than just giving up primitive mating rituals. It was more about improving myself so I could more effectively deal with things. Things like helping people, going to school, making myself more effective in defending and protecting people. This is what I am thankful for this week on my vows. I was a respected and maybe even feared warrior at one point in my life. Now I am realizing that I will always be a warrior. The battles I fight now are not just against flesh and bone but against ideas and feelings, maybe even life itself. I have increased my training physically and mentally. The strength to go a little more in the gym or to try harder to effect a positive change in someone ...I draw from my vows. Someone must protect and defend people and therefore I will be ready if I am ever called to do so. There is still much work to be done but I will not falter or fail in my duties. For this and more I am thankful...... 