All That Insane Training Has Paid Off...

I almost forgot to post this...I guess because I don't normally talk to anyone, so I forgot to let someone (or something, rather) what was going on in my life. Today at the end of our formation, Sgt McDonald asked everyone to stay back for a second. Then he announced that we had two new brown belt instructors to congratulate and I stood there thinking, "Wow, that's cool! I wonder when I'm going to get mine." That's when I realized that he was talking about Cpl Prou and myself! It was so great. Normally, to gain a belt you have to go through an intense two-week course that entails a lot of PT (physical training) and a lot more grappling (wrestling), getting thrown around, sparring, and a whole lot of drills designed to improve your physical fitness. But Sgt McDonald had just mentioned to me the other day that as a Black Belt Instructor-Trainer, he could award belts based on effort and merit alone. I thought that was pretty cool...but I didn't really think that's how I'd get it. I spent a month training one Grey Belt course and one Green Belt course and I had the best time I've ever had in the Marine Corps. I love doing martial arts, it's something I'm actually good at and I'd like to think I'm a proficient teacher...still learning, of course. I am so thankful that God has said that I'm ready for this added responsibility and status, and I just pray for the wisdom and ability to hold this station and be the most proficient instructor that I can be. Anyway...I'm sure this doesn't really concern most of you, I just wanted to share it because it made me so happy. I hope everyone's doing well...we're still trying to get me home. And by we, I mean the Big Guy and myself. He's doing most of the legwork.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine." PRO 3:5-10

I pray that I am ready for this gift, Lord. Be my strength and my Guide and I will submit to your will.

God bless,
-Matt