If you need a New Years resolution or goal to achieve , here's one. It sounds cliché but BE. THE. CHANGE.

2014-12-11T00:05:12-05:00

I hope that everyday each service member does something to help make a difference in the world. Whether it be at work, driving home from it or on your weekend downtime if you're lucky enough to get it. There are countless opportunities for someone no matter where they are to make a positive difference or change someone's life regardless of your rank or job title. Even being able to change someone's negative perspective about something into a more positive one can have just as much of an impact on their future as saving a life. And sometimes a change of perspective can do just that. Refrain from ever feeding into or saying to anyone "well, that's just the way it's always been done" because that kills motivation and crushes the confidence of bringing new ideas to the table. I joined the military because Im extremely passionate about doing anything I can to help. I want to change the world. When I signed the line I thought that my name would be above and below other people that felt the same way. I thought that I'd be working side by side with disciplined, respectful, well structured, driven, motivated, passionate, intelligent people who also felt like they were born to fight for what's right and to keep others safe.
I realized pretty quickly that unfortunately my idea of the military as a whole was a bit naive.
The factual statement that perception is everything makes it extremely easy for Airmen and other members like myself to decide whether or not you're one of those members who bring nothing to the table and are only here to collect a check. There's nothing wrong with joining the military for the money or benefits but in my eyes if that's the case you better work and participate next to everyone else equally if not harder to earn your share of what others are here to do for nothing except the opportunity to serve whether there was incentive or not.
I think I'm getting off track. I just wish to see that EVERYONE does their part that newbies like myself look forward to seeing. Be excellent, not cocky. And let integrity hang over your head like the oversized trash bag parkas they give the new Airmen.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 5:05 AM

2014-12-11T05:05:51-05:00

SrA Private RallyPoint Member Excellent outlook on life. Coming from a former Zoomie, it all comes back to the basic core values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do. Start the day out right, make your bed, appreciate what you have, appreciate the little things, and set the example. It only takes a few to bring those around you down.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 5:10 AM

2014-12-11T05:10:57-05:00

That is very insightful advice, SrA Private RallyPoint Member. You have a great attitude! I look forward to reading more posts from you around the discussion boards.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 11 at 2014 6:05 AM

2014-12-11T06:05:45-05:00

My resolution is not to have a resolution. In that case I can't break one if I don't have one to break.