How funny is it that so many people want military money but don’t want to make that sacrifice to put the time in for their country. 

While I appreciate every thank you that I receive from the community it is disappointing to hear the responses from people that say “I couldn’t do it” when asked why you don’t consider joining.  Many of the individuals I spoke to will say I “I don’t like being told what to do” or “I don’t want to be brain washed”.  Then when asked what they are studying in school they say I’m not going to school right now because I can’t afford it.  The most entertaining answer is the ones that say “I’m trying to find myself” or “I’m trying to figure out what I want to do”.  I have heard these responses from the bagger at the grocery store, wait staff at restaurants, the teller at the gas station or retail store employees.  While I am not judging anyone and believe that every honest dollar is a good dollar, there is a pattern here.  All of these occupations pay minimum wage or less and are not occupations that often lead to career progression.  Often times these types of occupations will never allow you to reach above the poverty line.  Also, the ability to save, invest, and prepare for retirement is non-existent while trying to live. 

The military has afforded me the opportunity to travel, learn a multitude of different skills such as performing routine maintenance, planning, organizing, marksmanship, as well as physical fitness.  I have purchased two homes with my housing allowance that is tax free.  I never have to be concerned with were I will be sleeping or if I will have food to eat because that is provided as well and tax free also I might add.  My monthly expenses amount to about 35-40% of my total income.  That leaves about 60% for me to spend, save, invest, travel with, and use at my discretion.  So, when I hear “Thank You” follow with “I could never do what you do” I just think say “No, thank you”.  Thanks for not having the intestinal fortitude to do what you need to do to excel and holding the door open for the ones that fight along my side every day.