Reflecting on a Warrior's Inspiration: A Journey Through Time

Introduction

I first encountered this poem on our squad bay wall during Marine Corps boot camp back in 1995. It was engraved on a gold-colored plaque, hanging over the scribe's desk. Interestingly, the word "Soldier" was replaced with "Marine," and at the bottom, an etched Marine drill instructor stood proudly. As I read it, I could still smell the hint of pine sol, boot polish, and the salty Southern California August air filling my lungs.

A Moment of Optimism

The first time I read this poem, I couldn't quite understand the emotions it stirred in me. It felt like the most amazing poem I had ever read. Over the years, I have encountered many more profound and beautifully written poems in college and through my own study. Yet, I always return to this one. About once a year, I revisit it, trying to recapture that initial feeling. I now realize that the feeling was optimism—optimism for what my life was destined to be.

Living the Words

It might seem strange to keep returning to this poem to recapture that feeling, especially since I have lived out its words in my life and career. But I believe it ties back to the saying, "You can never go back home." This theme has repeated itself throughout my life since I first stepped off that bus in MCRD San Diego and onto the yellow footprints.

Longing for the Past

As we grow older, we all experience moments of longing for the past. It doesn't have to be related to war; we all go through traumas as we age. Whether it's losing a friend, parent, or child too soon, escaping a difficult past, or facing unexpected life challenges such as raising multiple children with special needs or caring for a sick parent—these experiences make us yearn to recapture those tiny moments of optimism.

Embracing Previous Moments of Optimism

Some might argue that we should focus solely on the future, but I believe there's value in examining our past moments of optimism. For instance, this poem has always resonated with me because it reflects the image of what I wanted my life to be from a young age. Playing with GI Joe as a child, watching Indiana Jones, playing war with my cousins and uncles in my grandparents' creek, and listening to my grandfather's war stories from the Pacific—all shaped my vision. While some may call it classic conditioning, I believe it was more than that. I still had the choice to join the military and to re-enlist after a five-year break. The warrior path has always appealed to me.

Finding Hope for the Future

By reflecting on this small moment of optimism and sharing it with you, I find hope for the next chapters of my life. Understanding where these feelings came from and why I had them helps me navigate my future. I know what motivates me deep down, so I can focus on that and not waste time on what others say I should be doing. Instead of getting fat, drinking more beer, or seeking medical disability, I prefer teaching, training, coaching, and leading young warriors to be fit and healthy citizens for their communities.

Conclusion

What about you? What are some moments in your life that you can never go back to, but that bring you optimism? I challenge you to think of one or two and share them in the comments.

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