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Post by samSForce on Jan 9, 2008 0:12:52 GMT -5
Thank you that does mean a lot. It did get deep but I think that is what I need. I have talked with a lot of Marines and they have all said they cannot explain what goes on at boot camp, you have to experience it yourself. I can't really see myself not joining. All I talk about is the Marines and cannot wait until graduation. I really do want this. If i don't make it I will feel bad and like a loser. But hey...that shouldn't be in my mind. About the "heat of the moment", I hope that's not what this is. Me wanting to join now just because of the heat if the moment in my life right now. I just wish God could tell me if this is what He wants me to do or not. ......I'm not sure if this will fly with some members of the board.....because of religious sensitivities, etc.......but, honestly, I don't care..........................I prayed ALOT about my decision, and, I know it works.........just take your time Ashley. Don't let recruiters, or anyone, force you or rush you to make a decision that's yours to make.
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 10, 2008 22:07:56 GMT -5
Thank you everyone for all your help! I really appreciate it!
Semper Fidelis
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 10, 2008 22:21:03 GMT -5
I prayed already that He would give me wisdom to make this decision. I need to pray more though. I know I shouldn't be rushed, it actually seemed like I am sometimes. My recruiter hasn't really been much help. That's pretty sad but I haven't talked to him since October and he hasn't replied to any of my emails. Is it true that recruiters will say anything to get you to join? It seems like he was telling lies, even though he said he wasn't.
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Post by melody on Jan 10, 2008 22:34:26 GMT -5
you'll be in my prayers ashley
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 10, 2008 22:43:14 GMT -5
Thank you very much Melody.
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 10, 2008 22:46:03 GMT -5
Today I got a message from my friend Daniel's sister. He died 9 months ago in Iraq. This is what she had to say about me joining, "It's not glam, it's not fun, it's a ton of work, and the world does not give them or the work they do the respect they deserve- if it's God's will of COURSE you can make it- and know that you will have a ton of Christian support and prayers."
I feel like she's right. I don't know....I don't what to think now.
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Post by David on Jan 15, 2008 12:35:54 GMT -5
Today I got a message from my friend Daniel's sister. He died 9 months ago in Iraq. This is what she had to say about me joining, "It's not glam, it's not fun, it's a ton of work, and the world does not give them or the work they do the respect they deserve- if it's God's will of COURSE you can make it- and know that you will have a ton of Christian support and prayers." I feel like she's right. I don't know....I don't what to think now. She is right, I made sure to ask myself about 25 times if the Army was the right way for me to go, I had done my research, talked it over with some cadets and the Lt. Colonel, and the Sergeant Major at my school before I finally just told myself, the only thing that's holding me back is the fear of the unknown. I was all pumped and ready to go, I started to sign the papers and everything to contract myself as a cadet for AROTC, only to be disqualified. Now, I'm mad at myself for opening my mouth about being on medication. I am a religious person myself, I asked God for his help in my decision whether or not I was making the right decision, and for the next month or so I was reflecting non-stop on how I had wanted to join the Army since I was a sophomore in high school, and it was God who helped me to realize that this is the right job for me. You're friend is right, it's not glam, it's not fun (at first, once you know your stuff I'm sure you start to have a bit more fun with it), and it is a thankless job. Just keep praying, the Deacon at my parish, whom I admire and respect, told me that "God will leave you wandering around for a while, but just make sure you listen when He speaks to you." Good luck Ashley, I've got a friend in the Marines right now doing ATC (Air Traffic Control) and he says he LOVES it. So I wish you the best of luck! I know I can't wait to contract.
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 15, 2008 22:13:22 GMT -5
Thank you very much for the advice. I have done my research and talked to my dad who is SgtMaj and talked to recruiters. They have helped a lot but I still want to make sure God wants me to do this. I have to spend more time talking with him and myself then anyone else. I have been praying for wisdom, but how do I listen? How do I know when he's speaking to me? Thank you for everything! I appreciate it so much.
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Post by melody on Jan 15, 2008 22:16:49 GMT -5
it's been my experience with praying for answers that you'll just know...it's hard to explain...but God is very powerful, he'll let you know. sometimes you have to just let go and let God.
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 15, 2008 22:33:19 GMT -5
Yes, yes He is. Will there be signs or what? Do you know? I don't think He has ever really talked to me. I'm not sure what to look for. I've never done this before. I have never asked Him for something this big.
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Post by melody on Jan 15, 2008 22:39:28 GMT -5
ashley honey, God speaks to each of us in his own ways...the way he speaks to me may be different from the way he speaks to you. everyone has their own stuff that they pray for, so the ways of answering are going to be different. trust me, you'll just know. don't stop praying though, ever.
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 15, 2008 22:48:05 GMT -5
Yes you are right. Don't worry I won't. Hopefully he will speak to me and I WILL hear it.
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Post by melody on Jan 15, 2008 22:58:10 GMT -5
you will....you just have to have faith...
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Post by samSForce on Jan 15, 2008 23:38:14 GMT -5
This has turned out to be a really awesome thread....thank you Ashley, and Melody, for expressing your deep feelings about a topic that I'm sure many have, and will, encounter some time in their life. The transition from civilian, to military, isn't an easy one......it requires alot of hard work and dedication....and, taking that proverbial 'leap of faith' could arguably be the hardest part for some. It certainly sounds like you HAVE what it takes to cut being a marine, ashley.....strong will, and determination.....irregardless of which way you choose, you have alot of people supporting you.....even if it's just a few anonymous posters on some random message board called 'samsforce'..........i hope this thread will serve as an example, that others can relate too, whether it be the marines, or any other branch of service, that they are contemplating joining. while some feelings are unique, i could argue that many are also universal..... ;D
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Post by Future_Marine_Ashley on Jan 16, 2008 22:12:34 GMT -5
Thank you. That really means a lot. I sure hope so. Yes I would really like this thread to help other people as well. It is a VERY difficult decision and shouldn't be taken lightly. I am so blessed to have come across people like you. Most people wouldn't even help, but you guys did. And for that I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. I meet with another recruiter on Tuesday so I will definitely keep you guys updated. Everything that you have said really speaks to my heart. I feel like it has made an impact on my decision. I'll let you know if joining is a defiant yes! Thank you again.
God Bless,
Ashley
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