The difference between your 4th of July and mine
This fourth of July being in Okinawa, Japan didnt give me the patriotic feeling im use to. For the most part, the locals are friendly and welcoming. For most people this day means cookouts, beer, get togethers, music, family, and fireworks. Being in the military we see this through another light. This day is just another day that we go to work to protect your freedom. Another 12 hour shift. With all the rules we have on base, all we know is what we CANT do rather than what we can do. There are a select few of us that actually get this day off. myself being one of these individuals. I tried to goto the beach and get the whole music, beer and friends vibe. This day affects everyone differently for sure, but for me it made me miss being in the US. I miss the big over exhageration about fireworks and using this day to party with friends out on the lake. The military has to celebrate every min we are off work. Every second that we get of free time is a second that we are trying to come up with the next adventure. Today was just another one of those days. The only difference between yesterday and today is the music they play on the 1 english station on the radio. Although it is just another ordinary day, i am thankul.
- The weather was spectacular today. After a month of straight rain, you start to really appreciate the sunny days. No clouds in the sky,eyes squinting, bottom of the ocean being visable,still humid when the wind blows kind of days.
- I am thankful for true genuine people. I am not sure why it is so hard for me to just start a conversation with a stranger, or if they instigate the first move i always make them feel like i am being bothered. Everyday I am trying to lighten up a little bit. I met three guys from another base that were here on TDY. They asked me a couple of questions and told me to have a good day and thanks for the help. I am sure I didnt really help them, but it was a step towards the right direction. It is so easy to make other people happy by just acknowleding their presence.
- I am amazed at how much the little things in life get overlooked. Everyone is so busy with their families and work etc. It really is worth it to take a minute out of your day and just look around. Take in everything surronding you and the people that are present. Everyday on Kadena AB the national athem plays at 1700 (5pm). During this time if you are in a vehicle you are suppose to stop until the song is over. If you are outside we have to stand at attention and solute. Long story short, everything comes to a standstill for those 3 minutes. I love to look around. I like to look at the kids faces in the cars stopped, the marine saluting proudly in 100 degree weather, the military wife being a role model for her kids standing next to her when they want to run inside right before it plays so they dont get stuck standing still outside. Everyday this song plays and it gives every person on base a chance to stop and gather their thoughts.
