The featured photo on this post is from the U.S. Embassy in Singapore where I commemorated the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. It was an emotional time for me as I was going through the transition process after being selected for Chief Petty Officer.
Part of the transition season is that it is a time to reflect on what brought you to the point where you will receive your Anchors, the emblem of the Chief Petty Officer. If you’re not familiar with it, this season separates the Navy from her sister services and is an intensive, weeks-long journey into senior enlisted leadership. It is always a life-changing experience for those who endure it.
⚓ We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. ⚓
Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)
As I was reflecting on my Naval career on the 10th anniversary (now fifteen years ago) and back to those terrible attacks, I endured a difficult internal conflict which continues to haunt me every year.
While it is awful to even consider being grateful for that dreadful day in 2001, there is a part of me that MUST be. That day gave me the courage and determination to radically change my life at the age of 25 and enlist in the U.S. Navy.
Only because of that day, did I meet my ex-husband and have our three amazing girls, the eldest of whom is now a Combat Medic with the Oklahoma National Guard.
Because of that day, I had an incredible military career and continued to serve in both state and federal agencies helping people around the country.
Because of that day, I learned sacrifice, deploying three times in three years and missing holidays, birthdays, and first days of school for young kids who couldn’t understand why mommy wasn’t there.
Because of that day, I was exposed to culture in a way I never could have imagined, visiting over two-dozen countries and living in both Europe and Asia.
Because of that day, I witnessed utter devastation after the earthquake in Haiti, but still had the chance to bring smiles to the faces of young children in orphanages there.
Because of that day, my life was forever changed in all the best ways possible.
I will truly never forget the sacrifice of all those souls who lost their lives twenty-five years ago. Nor those who fought valiantly afterwords and continue fighting for freedom today.
It will always be a poignant reminder that as terrible as the events were, I am in debt to every single victim and their families.
For their sacrifice has brought me the greatest joys of my life.
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