Lessons From Basic Training
Lessons from Basic Training
Jane Clark
Basic training in the military is not summer camp. The work is hard, and you never seem to get enough sleep. Total obedience and teamwork are emphasized. We forget about our rights, and set our minds on what the Commander wants. The needs of the military, come first.
Americans so often focus on our individuality that we forget the need for unity and teamwork. We have had the luxury of concerning ourselves with our rights and our personal freedoms. Although the newspapers have told of heinous crimes every day, we have grown numb to them. As though they weren't real, because they didn't affect us.
The events of last month have been a wake-up call, I think. We no longer focus only on our own interests. We see the nation pulling together in the crisis, the flags waving, the soldiers going to battle... somewhere. It puts a lot of things into perspective.
On September 11th, many who went about their business that morning were suddenly thrust into the presence of the Living God. Hopefully, many were ready for that day. One thing you learn in Basic, is to be ready at all times.
Many left behind family, homes, cars and friends. Some they will never see again. If they knew Jesus Christ, and shared His love and the gospel of salvation, they may see many of their loved ones again. One thing we learned in Basic was to not hold on too tightly to things. We gave up our civilian belongings to focus on the job at hand. We said good-bye to friends and family for a time, to follow our Commander.
I'm reminded that devotion to duty, to our Commander and Lord, and love for family and friends are the things that last. Even the medals awarded to our heroes will turn to dust, someday. Rewards that last. come from God. It is wise not to hold on too tightly to things that are not eternal.
"For I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I've committed to Him until that Day." 1 Timothy 1:12
