1. Early is on time, on time is late.
Let me tell you a little story. When I was younger, my dad took my family and me to a birthday party at McDonald’s, right? We were so early we got there before the family hosting the birthday party did! This really has helped me in my life, because I always strive to be at least 10 minutes early. You never know what could happen. I am notorious for being navigationally challenged, so it is very likely that I will get lost going to a new place. Having it instilled in me to always be at least ten minutes early makes up for that.
2. Hard work is essential.
I am very fortunate to have grown up where my father taught me to work for everything I needed or wanted. Nothing was handed to me on a silver spoon. Chores did not result in an allowance. Doing my chores meant that I wasn’t going to get grounded. Now, I am 19 years old, work two jobs, am in college, and I have my own apartment. I work hard and I play hard. I will never have anyone tell me I am an entitled millennial.
3. Moving to a new place means new experiences and adventures.
When I was young, I lived in Alaska and was part of the Cross Country Skiing Team. How cool is that? From there, we moved to North Carolina where we were so hot in the middle of October we asked the workers at the hotel we were staying at if they would open up the pool for us.
4. Packing to move is the worst thing imaginable.
I was young when my dad was in the Army, but it has still been ingrained in me that packing is awful and moving should never be done. This past weekend, I finally finished moving out of my old apartment and I can honestly say I hated every single minute of it.
5. Making new friends comes easily.
When you move around a lot, it’s important to learn how to adapt and make friends easily. Especially when you’re young, being the “new kid” can be frightening. But if you live in a place surrounded by other military children, everyone flocks together and is nice to you. They understand the struggle.
6. Deployment is terrible and very scary.
I don’t think this needs any discussion. Even if your parent isn’t going to a war zone, knowing they’re away from you is not a good feeling.
7. Deployment can also result in some cool gifts!
On the other hand, you often get pretty nice souvenirs. When we were in Alaska, my dad had to travel to Thailand. When he came home, he presented my sister and I with traditional outfits from the area. We’ve also received money from various different places, and some other cool presents.
8. Behaving, at home and in public, is a must.
While celebrating July 4 with my dad this summer, I remember him discussing our behavior as a kid. I especially remember him saying, “You guys did not misbehave in public. Other kids would cry and throw fits, but not you guys.” So thank you Army for teaching us not to be little brats.
9. Family is the most important thing.
When you go a while without seeing a family member, the time you have with them is important. I remember playing Halo with my dad on the original XBOX. And, of course, always losing. But that was our bonding time and I enjoyed every minute of it.
10. Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day have actual meaning. They’re not just a day off of school.
My dad, a disabled veteran, is one of the most important people in my life. These two holidays should be held with the utmost respect. The people that are being celebrated have sacrificed their time, their sanity, and for Memorial Day, their lives to keep us here in America safe.
11. Our troops, past and present, are the most selfless, courageous people in the world.
These men and women give up their time, their family, and in many cases their lives in order to protect us and our country. These people know what true sacrifice is.
