God, Family, and Country

This last week I had to complete a survey at work about the factors that influence me to either stay in or get out of the Air Force. Most of the questions were the "to-what-extent-do-you-agree-or-disagree-with-the-following-statement" type of questions, but one of the questions asked me to fill in my own comments:

"Please provide any comments you may have pertaining to what influences your career decision."

As I thought about my response to that question, it really just hit me. This is my response:

"The single biggest drawback to my Air Force service is the time I have to spend away from my family. My priorities in life are (in this order) my God, my family, and my country. Being away from family for my country is a sacrifice and a burden. That being said, I understand the need, and I understand that someone has to do it. My family understands, too. Were it not for a supportive family, I would not stay in the Air Force. I feel, however, that those times when I am away from my family, I am serving not only my country, but I am also serving my family and my God. Because of that conviction, I choose to remain in the Air Force, despite having to leave my family from time to time. This period of my life will not last forever; I hope to be able make a difference while I can."