I was in the United State Marine Corps. I love my beloved Corps. I support all branches but I will never love another like I love the Corps. That time in my life made me who I am today. I have never regretted being part of it because it's always with me. I miss it even though there were times when I didn't understand it. Orders are orders. I keep those USMC values and teach them to my son. As a former Marine I have an instant bond with other Marines. I don't have to know them personally, its just there. It's something that cannot be described. I was a Marine during peaceful times. It is easy for me to sleep at night because I know that they are out there protecting us here. And when I think one of us/them is hurting I hurt. I want to help. It's the Marine Corps way.
I have a twitter account (@usmcdaffy) and I follow lots of people. I follow sports, dispatchers, police, fire, soldiers, Airmen, Seamen, and of course Marines. Lots of them. Retired ones, active ones, young ones, seasoned ones, veterans, etc. Awhile ago I started following an active duty Marine. All I am going to say is he has seen combat, he is active duty and he is from the South. I feel drawn to him. I don't know his name. I dont know where he is stationed. I don't ask. That is okay. He has a broken heart I think. And not a regular broken heart. The kind that never really heals. The kind of broken heart that was broken because he couldn't save his friend/brother/Marines.
It's called survivors guilt. And it is a very tough thing to live with because it's always there. You have to be able to forgive yourself. And he may never do that. I dont know. I want to help him. I don't feel like he is in danger or dangerous, just sad inside. The only way I can help is say goodnite. Every nite. So he knows every night that one person cares.
So if you see someone struggling. Or hurting. Or needing help. Sometimes its the small gesture, the extra smile makes it better for at least that day, that moment, that right now. Say hi. Hold the door for someone. Take a moment to think that maybe they aren't having a great day too. But maybe that small gesture will help them.
It doesn't have to be big to have big meaning.
Ciao
USMCdaffy
