Posted on Feb 19, 2014
LT Submarine Watch Officer
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When you face a struggle attempting a course for your life, how do you know if it is an obstacle to overcome and push through or simply a sign that there is a different path you should be on?  I am not the type of person to give up but sometimes it seems right to take the open door to a different path than break down a bolted-shut door.

 

The example from my life is that I have not been able to find employment with my degree.  This has been a struggle for a couple years.  Yet the Guard has been there to provide me orders and opportunities. 

 

I would love to hear any insight or examples this community has on the issue.

 

This question is targeted at those who believe in God, fate, destiny, or that a path exists for our lives.  But if you do not have such beliefs please feel free to answer with how you make these decisions as well without the idea of a guiding force.

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Responses: 2
SGT(P) Motor Transport Operator
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It'll be interesting to see how this plays out. I'm currently wondering the same thing. As we all have different motivators, it'll be different for each one of us. I am so busy kicking down doors and it takes a toll. It can be a lonely path. I'm at the point that I know I can push through and keep kicking them down, but I have to weigh what toll it is taking on me, mentally and physically. You don't want to end up like me, broken and battered, even if you achieved what you set out to do, rather than still satisfied and have your health. I wish I had the answer to the question you asked. Life would be so much better.
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LT Submarine Watch Officer
LT (Join to see)
11 y

SGT,

I hope the best for you in your choices.  If you decide to keep kicking your doors down and go towards your goal, I have nothing but respect for you.  Stay strong.

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CMC Robert Young
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<p>The answer lies in your statement "I am not the type of person to give up but sometimes it seems right to take the open door to a different path than break down a bolted-shut door." Often the door bolted shut is the indication (by Providence if you believe&nbsp;or Karma if you don't) that the open door is the right path. Only life's experience and faith will help you in your discernment of each situation, and thereby dictate your response; do I batter down the closed door, or accept with grace the open one?</p><p><br></p><p>I was taught from a young age by deeply faithful parents that there is a Divine plan for us all, and that the open door will appear at its appointed time. What separates those of us who succeed from those of us who don't is the ability to recognize those moments and respond accordingly with humility and perseverance.</p><p><br></p><p>Examples....I have a ton, many related to the blessing that has been serving in the military. My last mobilization came at what I believed to be an inopportune time. There was much struggle and difficulty in the life of my family, and the thought of another recall(albeit providing security in a port not far from home) was not on my agenda and my initial response was more than a little negative. The blessings arose in ways I still can't count including the medical care that was made available to daughter and wife both of whom endured significant health problems very shortly after my activation. It's a quality of medical care that my civilian health insurance wouldn't have provided. </p><p><br></p><p>The hand of God will not allow you to go where the hand of God&nbsp;cannot protect you.</p><p></p>
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LT Submarine Watch Officer
LT (Join to see)
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Thank you for your insights Master Chief.  Unfortunately I'm still short on life experiences and discernement.  Hopefully God is covering me on that account.
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CMC Robert Young
CMC Robert Young
11 y
He does...
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