Today is bittersweet. And it’s hard to find the right words but here I go...
On September 26, 2006, I enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard. On that fateful day, I “solemnly” swore that I would “support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the State of Florida against all enemies, foreign and domestic;” that I would “bear true faith and allegiance to the same;” and that I would “obey the orders of the President of the United States and the Governor of Florida and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to law and regulations. So help me God.”
At the time I had no idea what I was really getting myself into, but I had no regrets about my decision. Looking back it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I was blessed every day I was in C BTRY 1/265th ADA, surrounded by men and women that became not only my friends but my family. Six years carries with it time to learn. In my time with the Army, I have learned many skills and lessons about myself, about life, and about the world. For those reasons I will always be thankful.
In it all God was there, guiding me, teaching me and shaping me. After many months of prayer, talking and weighing the options, I have decided to pursue another avenue. As I finish my commitment with the Army, I am taking a “leap of faith” to pursue what God has place in my heart and what he ultimately calls us to do: seek justice, defend the oppressed…take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (Isaiah 1:17). This was something I started a couple of years ago, and now I intend to see it to fruition.
Some may call crazy for stepping away from a good thing. But I firmly believe that I am pursuing a path that God has set before me. No matter the outcome of my decision, God will use it for His glory.
