A life time ago. Mere 20 days after my 17th birthday that one summer day between my junior year and my final year as a Senor in High School. I took my 1st oath of my 1st contract with the US Army.
The following summer I began my journey as a Soldier and a fulfillment of my obligations with the Government.
July 7th began my journey through the fire. Like a well made blade from those ancient blade-makers, the training, the heat of the summer, training, and many, many challenges began to push through the fire so I would not break if ever I would be test in the cauldron of war.
The irony of my journey is that my family had taken a left turn when it came to politics and all things military/war. My aunts and uncles, cousins, and other family members and friends of those family members. I live in a community filled with many who marched during the various movements of the late 60s and 70s. Teachers who still wore tie-dye shirts and peace symbol jewelry.
I found a different voice and I was influenced with various publications of books and magazines articles and a very skilled public speaker that stirred those emotions and spirits that cause you to join the military or police force in order to make things better for your community or nation.
With a strong sense of justice, country, and honor. I took a 10 year journey and around the world exposure to become the man that I am now.
In the vary core of my being I know who I am and what I believe. Yes, I have become more understanding and open minded about the choices that we make in life.
Yes, life has beaten me down at times and the wounds were deep and painful. Lessons were learned bitterly and humbly, even things crumble around me. I found always ways to survive and to grow stronger and better.
So now I live a simple life where I work, eat my meals with great pleasure. I drink my whiskey and smoke my cigars with a disregard with my life. Because life is short and I enjoy every breathing moment.
I am here to enjoy the beauties that fill the various galleries. Read the various blogs and other enteries. I try to help those I can and lift up those need a boost.
Living life like tomorrow is the last.