Marine

Today I have practically no voice. I don’t know why, perhaps it was the coughing. In any case, I’m getting sick of getting sick. I’m thankful for the break in symptoms during my interview, but now I’m trying to figure out how to heal up as quick as I can. I don’t want to go to Cali’s with a cold. Right now I’m steeping HerbaTussin, so maybe that will help with the cough.

I reserved my rental car today. I was very close to reserving a mustang, because it was only a few dollars more. But, I have no idea how it handles in the snow. Even worse, what if it’s the coolest thing ever and I have to return to my simple Corolla? lol I would rather not know and be able to enjoy my car as it is.

Yesterday I got new dog tags in the mail. I saw my neighbor’s dog tags the other day and it reminded me to look for mine. However, they’re missing somewhere in the madness that is the spare room I think. I had to do a little research to remember what went on each line, but I now have tags again. For those who are curious, this is how the Marine Corps sets up their dog tags:

Last Name

First Initial Middle Initial

Social Security Number

USMC Gas Mask Size

Religious Preference

I find it a bit odd that we don’t have full names, but I’m sure there was a reason for it. Also, when I went to boot camp I listed Lutheran as my religion, though I didn’t care a whole lot at that point. This time I ordered them with No Preference. I like it better this way. What sucks is that the last time I wore dog tags I started to have a reaction where the metal turned my skin black. So I ordered the clear protector to go over the chain, which makes it stiff and less conspicuous. But, at least I can wear them safely. The other problem I’m running into is having too many things to wear. I have my talisman, my moss agate, my leather pouch, and my dog tags. Maybe if I didn’t have boobs it wouldn’t be so hard, but wearing all of that makes me look like I have wierd growths! So now I’m having to choose. I don’t like making choices!

It seems like every day I feel more and more like a Marine. I don’t know why this is happening, and I’m watching very carefully to make sure I’m not getting off track on my spiritual development. Rather, I think the shift has to do with owning this part of myself. If I let my concern over how other people will react keep me from being proud, then I’m allowing fear to control my life. This is one simple way to learn to release that fear and regain my own power. Plus, the core values of the Marine Corps are good values. It’s why we’re draining our savings right now to fly to Oregon and help out a friend. It’s why she feels comfortable enough calling even though we haven’t talked in a very long time. Marines stick together and do whatever they have to for another Marine. Also, I think embracing this aspect will help me maintain focus and motivation at my potential job. I plan to keep things around to remind me why it’s important for me to do my job and do it well. The better our sonar systems, the more lives we can potentially save. It’s just another way I can contribute to the Corps, even while no longer enlisted.

I’ve had some other thoughts lately, but I’m honestly getting pretty tired. I better get to grading so I can get some things done. I’m hoping to go to the final UT women’s basketball game tomorrow. We didn’t go nearly often enough this year, which is sad. I guess we’ll have to be sure to go to more Silverstars games to make up for it.

I hope everyone else is starting to feel better from their various colds and such.