Just for Today.

This is a mantra that people may recognize from AA, NA, and similar organizations. I have hijacked for my own meanings, and stuff that gets me through the day.

Just for today, I will take care of my Soldiers before myself

Just for today, I prepare myself for the mission ahead, whatever that may be.

Just for today, I will get through one more alive.

Just for today, I will take the fight to my enemies, for if they die before me, then I will go home to my family.

Just for today, I will pray that my loved ones have the strength not to worry about me, this is harder for them than for me.

Just for today, the bullshit will not touch me, I am stronger than anything that they can do to me.

Just for today, I will get to know my Soldiers a little bit better, their lives depend on my decisions, and mine on their actions.

Just for today, I will dream of home, where I am safe and loved.

Just for today, all I have to live through is today, tomorrow will take care of itself.

Just for today, I will shoot straighter than my foes, they can die, better them than me.

These are a few of the things that sustain me. I am a sensitive person, for those that know me, this is true. I have developed an even stronger love of life, and I am a stronger, better person for having gone(going) through this experience. Life hangs by a thread for all of us, no matter what our job, where we live, or what language we speak. I could get hit by a bus in LA, crushed by a rock in Phoenix. All we have is today. We can prepare for the future, but nothing is guaranteed.

........and life goes on, for one more day......