Semper Fidelis

As a child, I was surrounded by globe and anchors and scarlet and gold.  I was also surrounded by those who carry a great level of respect for their role in the military.  Today is the 238th birthday of the United States Marine Corps.  Being a Marine Corps brat, I appreciate the chance to say thank you to the Marines who have bravely served our country.

What I witnessed through child’s eyes in the Marine Corps community helped me.  It helped me build skills I would later use as an adult.  I knew the importance of working hard.  I knew that working well together helps get things done.  I knew that staying committed to the task at hand was important.  The lessons I learned at such a young age remind me of the privilege it was to grow up on military bases.  They also remind me of the Marine Corps motto:  Semper Fidelis.  It means Always Faithful.

I’d like to think that my childhood experiences—especially those I had as a military brat, successfully prepared me for what I’ve had to handle as an adult.  As a parent of a child with many delays and intense medical needs, I’ve had to work hard.  I’ve had to stay focused.  I’ve had to find the right team of people to work with me.

Taking care of any child can be a daunting task, but I’ve stayed faithful.  I’ve stayed faithful to my son while learning more than I ever thought I’ve have to in order to parent him.  I’ve dedicated time, patience and energy when there wasn’t much of it left to give.  I’ve stopped myself from hosting my own pity party, or wanting to throw in the towel and run away.  Sure, some of this hasn’t been easy, and like many parents, I’ve stumbled and fallen more times than I can remember.  But like those parents, and with the tenacity of a Marine, I’ve brushed myself off.  I’ve gotten back up.  And I know I’ll also get back up the next time I fall.

Things may not always go the way we hope, but focusing and working hard together can help improve many trying situations.  Semper Fidelis.  Always Faithful.  Faithful to one.  Faithful toward many.  Because in this community, just like in the Marine Corps community, we’ve not only promised to help one, we’ve promised to help as many as we possibly can.

~Mamacita

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