Service before Self

Hey, what's up! Everything is Beastie! In other words, all is well.
This is my upcoming military service (extended) weekend. We actually have 4 days of service this month. I often think of my serving my country. I wonder, if I am doing a good job. I have never asked anyone, but I want to "feel" good about what I do. don't we all?
But then I recognized that it's not about me. there is no amount of recognition, rank or residual income that can replace life or time away from family. So why do I do this?
I will tell you, the first reason I joined the Air Guard was to become a lean, mean, disciplined machine. Well, that was still for me.
Then I decided that the uniform was hot, and I looked good in it, and again, that was for me.
I think there is a pattern. We do most things for ourselves, in the name of doing things for others.
And so I searched....
I searched more....
I am still searching....
I now know that my real self is totally, unapologetically about others.
However my selfish manifested, understudy (the actress that loves to take the stage) is all about me.
I also know and believe tha when I really put service before self, I am not left out.

What this means, is quite simple. If I really consider my thoughts, actions and deeds and align that with motivation, I will more than likely be able to make great choices.

This is why I am in the Air Guard. My people, the ones I have been blessed to nurture love and support, need a chaplain who will acknowledge,understand, and remain uncomprised by status,recognition or persuation. I grew up with a motto of Hosea Williams who ran under the guise "unbossed and unbought". This simply meant his morals, ethics or sense of righteousness was not up for sale, rent or able to be bartered.
People who serve need a leader who serves, not them, but the cause of making that organization great and of value.
People who serve need a leader who reminds them of their serve, and their greatness.
People who serve need a leader who cares about the whole, not just part, as well as a part not only the whole.

I love thy kingdom Lord!

And so I AM,
expectant and grateful!