I'm feeling weird. Changed - without trying to be melodramatic. I remember standing outside the hotel the first night I was back. I was looking over the city around me and thinking "these people - WE people have NO IDEA what living means. Our priorities are so f'd beyond reason. We have little idea what sacrifice or toughness (mental/emotional) means. There are hundreds of millions of people facing mortars and rockets and bombs at the hands of mostly islamic terrorists. I feel a bit sad, actually. Sad for our population who doesn't appreciate the freedom and security we enjoy. I'm also still sore. Wonder how long before mobility is completely restored. I feel honored for the opportunity to have served in some capacity in Iraq. A little let-down I didn't get to complete my tour; but I've learned to appreciate what I have given in 'service' - thankful to the taxpayers who support my efforts and provide for my family, based on my employment/service."
That's sorta how I feel, Gabs.
“… the greatest detractor from high performance is fear: fear that you are not prepared, fear that you are in over your head, fear that you are not worthy, and ultimately, fear of failure. If you can eliminate that fear—not through arrogance or just wishing difficulties away, but through hard work and preparation—you will put yourself in an incredibly powerful position to take on the challenges you face" - Pete Carroll.