A Soldier’s Struggle

There’s patriotism “Do it for god and country”, financial or educational assistance such as school loans or debt, and then there are those who look at the military as a way to escape whatever problems they may be facing. When given an opinion from several individuals I learned that everyone outlook on the military and the way it operates is completely different. Being a member of the Army National Guard myself, I see things completely different. Now…to clear up some thoughts that may be brewing in the back of many peoples minds.

    The question asked the most would have to be, “how do you do it”. Well, not everyone is blessed with the mental strength to adapt and overcome such a drastic change in such a short amount of time. Make no mistake, when you leave your home voluntarily for the unknown you’re nervous and anxious. Depending on what type of person you are, you may be excited or scared out of your mind. You’re wondering what it’ll be like then all of a sudden you’re in the midst of it all wondering is this real. The process is very mental and you begin to realize how important and precious the small things are in your life and what all you took for granted; things like food, drinks…the privilege to sleep late or just be left alone. Its like going from zero to 100 in a manner of seconds.

For those who make it through BCT ( Basic Training) things are different and they feel as if there’s nothing they can’t do. When you’re thrown into a whole new surroundings and challenged every moment of the day mentally and physically you gather a sense of pride about yourself when the day is over. You’re prepared for the worse of things and know how to react to any type of situation. Most soldiers get so used to being in an organized and controlled environment which is why most have trouble adapting when they return home. This is where the true challenges come in and things are seen clearly.

Imagine putting together the toughest puzzle you’ve ever had to assemble then having someone step on it or kick the pieces across the room. Or better yet, imagine being used to feeling a certain way or being surrounded by productivity then all of a sudden you’re engulfed in nothingness. That’s what its like for most when they return home. Mainly guard soldiers or reservist who planned to live a civilian life of some sort. You see, everyone has a plan but nothing is certain in today’s world but uncertainty. Most return to towns and cities with no opportunities. After speaking with others and evaluating my own feeling on the manner I came up with this conclusion.

Most soldiers feel as if they’ve been cheated or have cheated themselves in some form or manner. The mental weight of not being able to find a job and provide for one’s self and family is tougher to deal with and go through then anything one could ever know.  That sense of pride and duty….that sense of accomplishment is damaged when one runs out of paitnace. All that is needed is the support and understanding of those around them. If your loved one is a member of the armed forces and appear to be having a hard time talk to them and let them know that you now somewhat understand. The odds of them telling you exactly how they feel are extremly low because they’d most likly feel embarassed or shamed. Tell them no to give up and give them your support and if you’re one of those individuals tell your loved ones how you feel. At the end of the day, when the hard works been put in and the dust has cleared, you’ll know that you’ve done your best. Best of luck to you all and god bless.