Since I left the Marine Corps in 1998, I have had a constant problem with feeling like I belong. I have done countless hours of community service, which I enjoy, but it never really filled the gap. I have thought about joining a veterans group, but to be 100% honest with you I’m not a people person and I just don’t feel that I compare to these real Marines. Yes, I was a Marine on active duty for a little over 10 years, but I never had the opportunity to serve in a combat zone. I did the training, and got the shots, but never deployed to a combat zone. So for me to sit down at the AmVets or American Legion and talk with someone that actually truly served, is nothing sort of a disgrace. I served my 10 years 3 months and 20 days with honor, leaving by choice. I felt it was time to grow up, and get a real job that can truly support my family. At that time, I didn’t fully understand what I was leaving behind.

It just isn’t the Marine Corps for me, it is my entire life. I have a strong need to give back, when I got out I really tossed around the idea of becoming a reserve police officer, but I never went down that road. Instead, I spent my time, coaching youth sports and being a Boy Scout leader. I coached youth sports for good 10-plus years and was a scout leader all the way from Tiger Scouts to Life Scout. I was also volunteering at animal rescues and other charity events from time to time. Today, I’m 50 years old and I’m at a crossroads in my life. That crossroad is what I do now that I have grown up. What do I want to do with my life?

Though I enjoy outdoor activities, they often don’t enjoy me. My body does not react well to higher temperatures, which usually results in increased pain and other fun neurological issues for me. I really don’t enjoy bookwork, I work on a computer all day Monday through Friday, so I try not to do much of that on my off time. I’m not a huge sports fanatic, so what do I do now?

If you have any suggestions, drop me a line.