How are you different now; than before you entered the service?

I joined as an E-1 41 years ago, so obviously I think (still to be confirmed) that I am more mature. My 13 years as Enlisted taught me to follow instructions, expect others to work hard before playing hard and to respect those with more experience than myself. As an Officer, I learned to trust the Senior Enlisted to tell me what I needed to know, so I wouldn't be surprised at critical meetings, and to let me know when I missed an issue I needed to fight for. I hope, in the long run, that my Shipmates feel I grew into my ranks and took care of my troops.

After beginning seminary and chaplaincy training, I finally learned a tremendous amount about myself, that I didn't know for the first 45 years of my life. What an amazing awakening!!!

I didn't know exactly what I was heading out to when I finished college, I was young I was impressionable and looking, like everyone else to make their mark. The Army gave me a creed to follow, rules to live by and experiences that I will carry with me forever and that I use daily. It also taught me about honor, integrity, diplomacy, teamwork and both being there for and depending on others. I know that I was meant to take the path I did and couldn't imagine living my life any differently than how I have.

And to touch on the cliché circuit, yes I am older, wiser and wider than I was before I entered the service :-)

I'm older and wiser!

I was young. I could run. I could do anything that was asked of me as long as my Lord was at my side doing it with me. My Lord got me through the Army and Army Reserves.
Now I walk with a walker and ride a scooter around to get around. Entering the Veteran's Wheelchair games to compete with other Spinal Cord Injury or disease/diorders veterans.
Praising my Lord each and everyday.

I'm grounded, respectful and committed to everything I do. Before my service I was a transient in every aspect of the word.

"I knew a lad who went to sea, and left the shore behind him. I knew the lad, the lad was me, and now I cannot find him."

Shoot, I hurt a LOT more now. Ha!

I'm more experience and aggressive.