Introduction

Good day to all!

I wanted to write this as a way of introducing myself to the community. I wanted to start by saying that I am a typical Gemini in that I have contradicting pieces to my character. I am a progressive, metaphysically minded, and live primarily as a father, reiki master, and occasional guide to those who walk the path inward. I am also a US Marine. I admit that it is difficult to avoid feeling like I am acting against my beliefs.

How can someone reconcile progressive beliefs with serving in the armed forces of this country in these times? I can only speak for myself. I chose to enlist based on a desire to serve and also to walk a warrior's path. I believe that those of us raised without both parents need a father or mother figure to guide them on their journey. I chose the military as a way of discovering my inner father and connect to the wellspring of manhood. I had to suck up qualms I may have had about the Iraq misadventure because I believe in my nation, in service, and in putting one's beliefs on the line. I think both sides of the debate could learn by experiencing the culture of the other side firsthand. Many in the anti-war community do not come from poverty and do not understand that the military is not only a means towards an education for the disenfranchised, but is also an enfranchisement that instills a code of ethics and personal responsibility that one can not find outside of a tribal gang. We as a nation are parenting teems of children without direction, purpose, role models, and we are all responsible for one another. The warrior's path is an accepted way, and until the progressive community establishes a pathwork for those left behind, so that they are not misled by tyranny into participating in an atrocity.

I am now a better husband, father, and provider through service. Much can be said of the military life without falling into the tropism of "supporting the troops," which is merely a scoundrel's refuge against critical thinking. How is it supportive to send the armed poor into the desert to inflict even more despair onto the world? I, for one, don't feel supported. I feel much more supported by friends, family, and the surrounding community who strive to understand and be kind to those of us who march and wear uncomfortable uniforms. I will do my part to try and bridge that understanding.