Yeah, that's about the only way I can describe being in Taos. I expect everyone I meet to be a "tree huggin’, peace lovin’, pot smokin’, porn watchin’ lazyass hippy" like Todd Snider. Look up those lyrics if you're confused.
Okay so I was wrong. I have seen plenty of "Bush-Cheney" and even a couple of NRA stickers on the back of a few vehicles. SO what's my philosophy for today going to be? Yeah even me, who likes to pretend like she doesn't judge people before she meets them, does. Don't try to pretend like you don't, because you've done it. We all have. So we're all wrong, right? We're all selfish, disgusting beings who only care about themselves and their personal beliefs. No one else really matters right? We're pigs? Yeah, essentially.
All I can really say that's worth anything is you never know what someone's going through (leave my improper grammar alone). Of course it's easy to look at the girl driving Daddy's last-month Lexis or the guy hunched over the garbage-can fire like they're somehow lesser people but what's awesome is they're out of the exact same mold as us. And, what's even more amazing is that God loves them just as much as he loves me. And you. We're all the same. Because, to be quite honest, my refusal to love those people like I do my family is every bit as shameful as any distance they may have from the freedom of Jesus Christ...if there's any distance at all! How am I to judge them without a real conversation?
For a lot of us, it's hard to love certain "types" of people because their lifestyles or beliefs may be different from our own. However, when we deny the love that God has welled within our hearts, we won't know how it feels to break through those boundaries and love that "different" person who may be struggling. "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12: 9-11 shows us competitive ones what it means to truly love.
Genuine. Don't just look like you're loving your brother. Mean it. Humans have a fake-dar so you're not fooling anyone. If that means asking God to show you how to love someone, that's what it takes. Yeah, sometimes it is that hard to show someone you love them, but we need help with everything. Just ask.
Yes, I'm a religious person, but I know not all of you are. Okay, so how does this apply? Every human is equipped with the capacity to love. If you fill your heart with love, everything just falls in place. Like I said, it's hard. It's really hard to just be loving sometimes but even showing that different person a little bit of respect exhibits a loving heart rather than someone who's completely hardened.
How can I train to be a killer and preach this life of love? That, in my opinion, takes a thorough explanation. Just stick around, that should be an interesting discussion.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Feel that Fire
What if, one day, you were forced to be nothing but your bare self? What if there was nothing left of “you” but who you really are, deep down to the core and it was out in the open for everyone to see? Would you be alright with that?
In a sense, that’s what the stroke has done to Gheegee and it’s made me think about who I’m “training” myself to be. What if that day comes when something happens to me and all my brain knows to do is to show my honest-to-God personality? Is that scary? It shouldn’t be.
There’s something so attractive about someone who’s real and unafraid, it’s unexplainable. I’m not saying we should go pouring our inner souls out to the world. No one cares. There’s a clear difference between pouring out your soul and being real with people. We’ve become so used to covering ourselves up in one way or another so the world doesn’t have to see who’s really there. Sure, who you are may not be the norm or may not win the popular vote. Thank God. Someone’s gotta step out of the box.
Something else Gheegee’s stroke has shown me: the importance of a positive attitude. When that bare, unprotected personality comes out, who’s going to take care of it? I’ve decided if I “train” myself to be positive, if that time comes when I’m literally out of my mind, that’s all I’ll know how to do is stay positive and work my way through the battle. Just like any good Marine: equipped and ready for any fight that comes her way.
An important lesson from GySgt Cannady: It’s not the “practice makes perfect” that counts, it’s the perfect practice that makes a difference. Okay, so you can’t be perfect at life, but what I’m trying to say is that persistent, conscious effort toward a positive outlook on life can make all the difference. Yeah, there are plenty of times when it seems like everything is wrong in the world, but there’s a heck of a lot to be happy about as well.
Final words? Find something you absolutely love. If it’s clothes, shopping, and fashion, go for it. If that’s what drives your core, go all out. If you’re a sucker for knitting and classical music, that’s cool too. Make a list. Make a list of those things that make you really, really happy and pursue them. Dwell on them and make them your passions. Wake up and appreciate those things, even if they’re small. What’s that list look like for you? Here’s a (small) version of mine. Who knows, maybe I’ll make some of these things blog topics…
Salvation
Family
Books (Not necessarily reading them)
Two-stepping with a great partner
Working cattle
Watching the sun come up
Runnin’
Making people laugh
Outdoors
Myself <---Not so proud of that one
Honest friends
Cowboys
Writing
In a sense, that’s what the stroke has done to Gheegee and it’s made me think about who I’m “training” myself to be. What if that day comes when something happens to me and all my brain knows to do is to show my honest-to-God personality? Is that scary? It shouldn’t be.
There’s something so attractive about someone who’s real and unafraid, it’s unexplainable. I’m not saying we should go pouring our inner souls out to the world. No one cares. There’s a clear difference between pouring out your soul and being real with people. We’ve become so used to covering ourselves up in one way or another so the world doesn’t have to see who’s really there. Sure, who you are may not be the norm or may not win the popular vote. Thank God. Someone’s gotta step out of the box.
Something else Gheegee’s stroke has shown me: the importance of a positive attitude. When that bare, unprotected personality comes out, who’s going to take care of it? I’ve decided if I “train” myself to be positive, if that time comes when I’m literally out of my mind, that’s all I’ll know how to do is stay positive and work my way through the battle. Just like any good Marine: equipped and ready for any fight that comes her way.
An important lesson from GySgt Cannady: It’s not the “practice makes perfect” that counts, it’s the perfect practice that makes a difference. Okay, so you can’t be perfect at life, but what I’m trying to say is that persistent, conscious effort toward a positive outlook on life can make all the difference. Yeah, there are plenty of times when it seems like everything is wrong in the world, but there’s a heck of a lot to be happy about as well.
Final words? Find something you absolutely love. If it’s clothes, shopping, and fashion, go for it. If that’s what drives your core, go all out. If you’re a sucker for knitting and classical music, that’s cool too. Make a list. Make a list of those things that make you really, really happy and pursue them. Dwell on them and make them your passions. Wake up and appreciate those things, even if they’re small. What’s that list look like for you? Here’s a (small) version of mine. Who knows, maybe I’ll make some of these things blog topics…
Salvation
Family
Books (Not necessarily reading them)
Two-stepping with a great partner
Working cattle
Watching the sun come up
Runnin’
Making people laugh
Outdoors
Myself <---Not so proud of that one
Honest friends
Cowboys
Writing
Sunday, July 10, 2011
...
6 weeks and I have no idea where to start.
Okay, so it was the most amazing 6 weeks of my life. The first question most people have asked me is, "Well, how was it?" Pretty basic question, so I give a straightforward answer, "I loved it." After they hear that, they give me a look like I'm crazy and just kind of shake their head.
But I'm not lying. Yeah, OCS was a challenge and it was mentally tough at times, but I loved what I was doing and want more. All in all, I can't wait for next summer. A lot of candidates think about how much they were losing by going to OCS (everyday luxuries, family, etc.) but I can't help think of all the things OCS gave me. I am now just a better person: more disciplined, more level-headed, a better decision maker...all the qualities I see in strong leaders have been dug out from my depths and brought to the surface.
OCS gave me some of the best and coolest friends I could ask for. The 27 females that stuck it out for the entirety of training are among the best people I've ever met. We worked together and built a bond that no one can possibly break. No one will take that away from us. Whether they go back for SR's or not, we share an accomplishment that will hold us close forever.
So many people don't understand or don't approve of the military and the Marines in particular, but I have just a few words for those people. It's understandable that you don't understand why the military is the way it is, but until you've been part of it or dealt closely with it, you have no room to speak ill words of our armed forces. Things are done the way they are for a reason and it's because of that system that this country remains the strongest force in the world. I am so grateful for the Marine Corps and what it does for not only our country, but for our allies and for those countries and provinces that struggle for freedom and human rights. It's truly an amazing organization (if you can call it that) and deserves the utmost respect, even if you aren't a member or don't particularly care for the military.
I am absolutely honored to be on the path to becoming a Marine Corps officer. The enlisted Marines deserve even more respect because they're the ones who truly run the Corps. "Semper Fi" means so much more to me than ever because I will always be faithful to the Corps and to my country. Faith in yourself, faith in God, and faith in your fellow Marines can carry you through anything, so Semper Fi, y'all. Have faith in all that you do and know that somewhere, somehow, there's a Marines who's got your back.
I'll share OCS stories with y'all as they come to me but for now, we'll just leave it at that.
Okay, so it was the most amazing 6 weeks of my life. The first question most people have asked me is, "Well, how was it?" Pretty basic question, so I give a straightforward answer, "I loved it." After they hear that, they give me a look like I'm crazy and just kind of shake their head.
But I'm not lying. Yeah, OCS was a challenge and it was mentally tough at times, but I loved what I was doing and want more. All in all, I can't wait for next summer. A lot of candidates think about how much they were losing by going to OCS (everyday luxuries, family, etc.) but I can't help think of all the things OCS gave me. I am now just a better person: more disciplined, more level-headed, a better decision maker...all the qualities I see in strong leaders have been dug out from my depths and brought to the surface.
OCS gave me some of the best and coolest friends I could ask for. The 27 females that stuck it out for the entirety of training are among the best people I've ever met. We worked together and built a bond that no one can possibly break. No one will take that away from us. Whether they go back for SR's or not, we share an accomplishment that will hold us close forever.
So many people don't understand or don't approve of the military and the Marines in particular, but I have just a few words for those people. It's understandable that you don't understand why the military is the way it is, but until you've been part of it or dealt closely with it, you have no room to speak ill words of our armed forces. Things are done the way they are for a reason and it's because of that system that this country remains the strongest force in the world. I am so grateful for the Marine Corps and what it does for not only our country, but for our allies and for those countries and provinces that struggle for freedom and human rights. It's truly an amazing organization (if you can call it that) and deserves the utmost respect, even if you aren't a member or don't particularly care for the military.
I am absolutely honored to be on the path to becoming a Marine Corps officer. The enlisted Marines deserve even more respect because they're the ones who truly run the Corps. "Semper Fi" means so much more to me than ever because I will always be faithful to the Corps and to my country. Faith in yourself, faith in God, and faith in your fellow Marines can carry you through anything, so Semper Fi, y'all. Have faith in all that you do and know that somewhere, somehow, there's a Marines who's got your back.
I'll share OCS stories with y'all as they come to me but for now, we'll just leave it at that.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Until Next Time
Well...last full night before I leave for OCS so I might as well take advantage of the computer while I still can. My bag's packed (for the most part) and all that's left to do is clean up the room. Mom wants it "ship shape" so you can bet I will have that done by tomorrow afternoon.
I'm so ready to leave all of the "me" behind and start thinking like a real team player. There are a lot of selfish things I think I tend to hold on to, so it's time to just let it go and give everything I have for something else. That means no Rangers, no nice comfy runs at the ranch, no cooking whenever and whatever I want, no playing the guitar when I get bored...no sitting around. Friday.
I watched the sun come up while we gathered the east horse trap this morning. Every time I watch a sunrise it helps me realize how incredibly blessed I am and how grateful I am to be headed in the direction I am. There's a lot of growth and learning I must do, but I can't wait to see what God has in store around the next corner. And sure, I may not always do things the right way, but I'm trying my hardest and I will learn from my mistakes.
As far as things being "around the corner," some of you asked what my bucket list has in store for me. I won't bore you with the entire list, but I'll pick out some of my favorites that might be entertaining and/or surprising.
I wish I had something more exciting to say, but tonight is just going to have to be simple and straightforward. I will appreciate your prayers and thoughts these next six weeks and don't even think of giving up on me because I guarantee I won't give up on whatever I might be doing. Friday I have an opportunity to take the first step in achieving one of the most important objectives on my bucket list: to serve as an officer in the United States Marine Corps.
Semper Fi, y'all.
I'm so ready to leave all of the "me" behind and start thinking like a real team player. There are a lot of selfish things I think I tend to hold on to, so it's time to just let it go and give everything I have for something else. That means no Rangers, no nice comfy runs at the ranch, no cooking whenever and whatever I want, no playing the guitar when I get bored...no sitting around. Friday.
I watched the sun come up while we gathered the east horse trap this morning. Every time I watch a sunrise it helps me realize how incredibly blessed I am and how grateful I am to be headed in the direction I am. There's a lot of growth and learning I must do, but I can't wait to see what God has in store around the next corner. And sure, I may not always do things the right way, but I'm trying my hardest and I will learn from my mistakes.
As far as things being "around the corner," some of you asked what my bucket list has in store for me. I won't bore you with the entire list, but I'll pick out some of my favorites that might be entertaining and/or surprising.
- Run a 100-mile terrain race
- Spend at least 3 months camping (for real...no running water/RV/any kind of civilization)
- Visit Scandinavian countries and Australia (for starters)
- Stunt double once? Perhaps?
- Learn how to sew
- Write children's books
- GO NOODLING
- Get really, really old <-----Not sure how I'll know when that one's "achieved"
- Crash a wedding
- Win multiple shooting competitions
I wish I had something more exciting to say, but tonight is just going to have to be simple and straightforward. I will appreciate your prayers and thoughts these next six weeks and don't even think of giving up on me because I guarantee I won't give up on whatever I might be doing. Friday I have an opportunity to take the first step in achieving one of the most important objectives on my bucket list: to serve as an officer in the United States Marine Corps.
Semper Fi, y'all.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Git 'r Done
Yesterday I decided I needed to start a bucket list...for real. I realized there are so many things I want to do with my life but I never wrote them down. Because I love an adrenaline rush, I feel like leaving something out or forgetting I wanted to do something would just be really bad.
As I was making my bucket list, I realized something else: I have a lot of lofty goals. I mean, sure I want to sky dive, bungee jump, hang glide, all that fun stuff. However, there are a ton of far-off places I want to go, big things I want to do, and huge career goals I want to achieve. I know my bucket list probably isn't too different from everyone else's because we all want to do big things with our lives. I mean, we're not here just to sit around and watch everyone else.
So now you're asking, "So what? You made a bucket list. Big deal." But there's more to making a bucket list than just dreaming up some goals and writing them down. The thing is, if you want to achieve those goals, they're not just going to fall in place and achieve themselves. My bucket list made me realize it's not too early to start working on those goals. I'm only 20, but if I want to get some of those things done before my joints give out, I'm going to have to start now.
On another note, that bucket list doesn't have to be a plan to save the world. I kept asking myself last night, "What makes me happy?" I laughed as I wrote because to someone else, my list probably seems pretty dumb. The things on my list are things that drive me, things that make me want to be a better person and the best at what I do. However, the list is also a compilation of things I want to do for and with other people to keep me humble.
So don't get me wrong. I'm a big believer in taking some time just to be quiet and relax. But I can't live my life just sitting back and being quiet. So here's a challenge for you: make some noise. No, that doesn't necessarily mean protesting outside the Supreme Court for or against some big issue. To me, making noise means stirring up your own life. Believe it or not, you'll make a stand for something, even if it's discreet and indirect. Be the action, not just the words. Fill your life with goals and ambitions and don't be afraid to achieve them, but still take the time to be quiet and listen. God is more than willing to help you with your direction.
If you're not ready to start working toward those lifetime goals, start with today. Shoot, start with this morning. Set some goals and get them done. You're only stuck in the mundane if you allow yourself to get caught up in what's happening right now. Track your progress and look forward to making the next day better (or the next hour, if we're taking baby steps). It's never...ever too late to start on goals.
Me? I'm going to continue working on that list and I really don't care if it gets ridiculously long or elaborate. I'm going to set goals that fit me, not what someone else wants me to be. As I achieve something on the list don't worry, I'll let you know. This is going to be a ton of fun. Let's get 'r done.
As I was making my bucket list, I realized something else: I have a lot of lofty goals. I mean, sure I want to sky dive, bungee jump, hang glide, all that fun stuff. However, there are a ton of far-off places I want to go, big things I want to do, and huge career goals I want to achieve. I know my bucket list probably isn't too different from everyone else's because we all want to do big things with our lives. I mean, we're not here just to sit around and watch everyone else.
So now you're asking, "So what? You made a bucket list. Big deal." But there's more to making a bucket list than just dreaming up some goals and writing them down. The thing is, if you want to achieve those goals, they're not just going to fall in place and achieve themselves. My bucket list made me realize it's not too early to start working on those goals. I'm only 20, but if I want to get some of those things done before my joints give out, I'm going to have to start now.
On another note, that bucket list doesn't have to be a plan to save the world. I kept asking myself last night, "What makes me happy?" I laughed as I wrote because to someone else, my list probably seems pretty dumb. The things on my list are things that drive me, things that make me want to be a better person and the best at what I do. However, the list is also a compilation of things I want to do for and with other people to keep me humble.
So don't get me wrong. I'm a big believer in taking some time just to be quiet and relax. But I can't live my life just sitting back and being quiet. So here's a challenge for you: make some noise. No, that doesn't necessarily mean protesting outside the Supreme Court for or against some big issue. To me, making noise means stirring up your own life. Believe it or not, you'll make a stand for something, even if it's discreet and indirect. Be the action, not just the words. Fill your life with goals and ambitions and don't be afraid to achieve them, but still take the time to be quiet and listen. God is more than willing to help you with your direction.
If you're not ready to start working toward those lifetime goals, start with today. Shoot, start with this morning. Set some goals and get them done. You're only stuck in the mundane if you allow yourself to get caught up in what's happening right now. Track your progress and look forward to making the next day better (or the next hour, if we're taking baby steps). It's never...ever too late to start on goals.
Me? I'm going to continue working on that list and I really don't care if it gets ridiculously long or elaborate. I'm going to set goals that fit me, not what someone else wants me to be. As I achieve something on the list don't worry, I'll let you know. This is going to be a ton of fun. Let's get 'r done.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Got Your Earplugs?
Mom wants me to sing with them in church next Sunday. This could get ugly.
We all know I'm practically tone-deaf so if you'd rather save your ears, by all means, come to church, but bring earplugs just to be safe.
There's really nothing interesting happening in my life. Gheegee's making progress, we cleaned out the cedar closet yesterday, and I'm still as excited as ever about leaving for OCS. I really need that discipline in my life...
Can I just say how much fun cleaning out the cedar closet was? I think Mags and I were seven again. Eventually, Mags was wearing Mom's wedding dress and I was wearing my Martha hat. Mom found some American flag antennae...yes antennae, and swore she was going to wear them to OCS graduation. If she does, I won't speak or look at her until we get back home. That's a promise.
But today's Mom's birthday so if she wants to be goofy today, I won't disown her. She's pretty awesome, so she deserves a day (or every day) to do whatever the heck she wants.
Okay, no more rambling. Today's also Norway's birthday, so this is a shout-out to Silje, Kristine, and Monika. I'm sorry you can't be home on this awesome day, but celebrate from America and know I'm thinking of you!
I feel like leaving y'all with a quote today since I haven't said anything prolific:
"The world is not the most pleasant place. Eventually your parents leave you and no one is going to go out of their way to protect you unconditionally. You need to learn to stand up for yourself and what you believe and sometimes, pardon my language, kick some ass." --Queen Elizabeth II
Listen to Queen Elizabeth...go kick some ass today.
We all know I'm practically tone-deaf so if you'd rather save your ears, by all means, come to church, but bring earplugs just to be safe.
There's really nothing interesting happening in my life. Gheegee's making progress, we cleaned out the cedar closet yesterday, and I'm still as excited as ever about leaving for OCS. I really need that discipline in my life...
Can I just say how much fun cleaning out the cedar closet was? I think Mags and I were seven again. Eventually, Mags was wearing Mom's wedding dress and I was wearing my Martha hat. Mom found some American flag antennae...yes antennae, and swore she was going to wear them to OCS graduation. If she does, I won't speak or look at her until we get back home. That's a promise.
But today's Mom's birthday so if she wants to be goofy today, I won't disown her. She's pretty awesome, so she deserves a day (or every day) to do whatever the heck she wants.
Okay, no more rambling. Today's also Norway's birthday, so this is a shout-out to Silje, Kristine, and Monika. I'm sorry you can't be home on this awesome day, but celebrate from America and know I'm thinking of you!
I feel like leaving y'all with a quote today since I haven't said anything prolific:
"The world is not the most pleasant place. Eventually your parents leave you and no one is going to go out of their way to protect you unconditionally. You need to learn to stand up for yourself and what you believe and sometimes, pardon my language, kick some ass." --Queen Elizabeth II
Listen to Queen Elizabeth...go kick some ass today.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Old Schoooool Brotha
Today I finally got around to reading the Texas Monthly article about the Rangers. Well actually it was about Ron, Josh, C.J., and Nolan, but still it was an article about the Rangers. It just made me so happy to love baseball and even more importantly, to love Texas baseball. I remember getting so excited about visiting the family in Tyler because that usually meant a trip to Six Flags and a Rangers game. Yep, I had the Pudge poster in my room and everything. Most dedicated moment? Going to a game with a cast on my broken nose. Sure I had my hat pulled down as far as it would go, but dammit I got the see a stadium boo A-Rod as soon as he stepped up to the plate. So in case you're wondering if I'm one of the "bandwagon fans," think again. I hated the Yankees before anyone told me that was what true Texas fans did.
This past Fall at SMU, I was on the boulevard before a home football game and after some guy introduced himself to me he said, "Wait, aren't you that crazy Rangers fan?" Of course I owned up to it and the thought that someone had actually described me in that way made me overjoyed. Yeah, I'm a little crazy, but baseball and the Rangers are totally worth it.
So why do I love them? How can you not? Unlike many teams in the MLB they're a brotherhood. Yeah, Michael Young was in a bad spot with Daniels at the beginning of the season, but you couldn't find one player that didn't support Young, no matter what was going to happen. The guys play for the game and for passion, which is unfortunately why we constantly have guys on the DL. For those guys, it means pushing a little bit harder and sacrificing a little bit more for the W. They laugh, and they make up those claw and antler signs we've all come to know and love. They remind me so much of our Eunice boys who are (obviously) not playing for money, but for the game and the glory of winning. And that spirit showed when Feliz threw that last strike against the Yankees in Game 6 last season. In that dog pile, it wasn't about contracts, negotiations, or money. It wasn't about landing a new contract or impressing the sponsors. It was about the game of baseball and the passion it takes to make it to the top with your best friends (literally) backing you up.
And in case you're wondering about the title of the blog, that's what Dylan likes to call Wash, and I think it exemplifies the attitude of the team. They're boys who've been through every walk of life: Drugs, alcohol, poverty, immigration, high-class, backwoods, you name it, one of our boys has probably done it or been there. But baseball is that one uniting element, that one thing that keeps those guys together.
So America, you can take football if you want it, but I'll stick with baseball and the Rangers, even if it means another heartbreak.
This past Fall at SMU, I was on the boulevard before a home football game and after some guy introduced himself to me he said, "Wait, aren't you that crazy Rangers fan?" Of course I owned up to it and the thought that someone had actually described me in that way made me overjoyed. Yeah, I'm a little crazy, but baseball and the Rangers are totally worth it.
So why do I love them? How can you not? Unlike many teams in the MLB they're a brotherhood. Yeah, Michael Young was in a bad spot with Daniels at the beginning of the season, but you couldn't find one player that didn't support Young, no matter what was going to happen. The guys play for the game and for passion, which is unfortunately why we constantly have guys on the DL. For those guys, it means pushing a little bit harder and sacrificing a little bit more for the W. They laugh, and they make up those claw and antler signs we've all come to know and love. They remind me so much of our Eunice boys who are (obviously) not playing for money, but for the game and the glory of winning. And that spirit showed when Feliz threw that last strike against the Yankees in Game 6 last season. In that dog pile, it wasn't about contracts, negotiations, or money. It wasn't about landing a new contract or impressing the sponsors. It was about the game of baseball and the passion it takes to make it to the top with your best friends (literally) backing you up.
And in case you're wondering about the title of the blog, that's what Dylan likes to call Wash, and I think it exemplifies the attitude of the team. They're boys who've been through every walk of life: Drugs, alcohol, poverty, immigration, high-class, backwoods, you name it, one of our boys has probably done it or been there. But baseball is that one uniting element, that one thing that keeps those guys together.
So America, you can take football if you want it, but I'll stick with baseball and the Rangers, even if it means another heartbreak.
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