Happy Man

So, finally after over a year of deliberation and efforts, my application has been accepted. I am on my way to becoming a United States Naval Officer. All glory goes to God who has made this possible.

I anticipate many questions regarding my reasons why and what brought me to this desire. The reasons why are easy, I will state them in another post. What's interesting is my reflection on the path to get here.

I grew up hearing heroic war stories of my grandfather, a ROK Marine, from my father. He would boast of the multiple medals my grandfather had received, including one of the most prestigious military honors, one equal to the United States Naval Cross. I would eventually write a short 15 page book on my grandfather in high school. (I should find out where I put that book). Perhaps it had affected my subconsciously because I was intent on joining ROTC in high school. However, complications with transferring (I attended a magnet high school my freshman year) and the hassle kept me from joining ROTC. A few years later in college, I watched the TV series Survivor Cook Islands and became fascinated and inspired by the winner, Yul Kwon. Here was an Asian American male who was able to play a leading role and eventually win the season in the most honorable way that could be possible (at least in my eyes). I eventually researched my hero and discovered that he had attended Marine Officer Candidate School (OCS) during his college years, but had been discharged for physical injuries. Desiring to follow in his footsteps, I made the preliminary steps to enter Marine OCS and challenge myself just like Yul had done. However, I entered the process with the wrong mindset. A mindset of selfishness and desire for me to grow and to eventually leave OCS once I had finished (in the Marines you have the option of receiving your commission or leaving after completion of OCS). Thankfully, I was accepted into the Teach and Learn in Korea program at the same time. Thus, I chose to go to Korea and volunteer in China the summer before the program. While many lessons were learned in Korea, I was reunited with the military history in my family. My grandmother would show me all the medals and honors of my grandfather, and shared how my grandfather had wanted my father to be a Naval Officer; however, my father was unable to make the weight limit (he didn't weigh enough to qualify). With this implanted in my mind, I made my way back to the United States.

As I finished up my senior year in college, I applied to many government agencies, with the thought of the Navy as a backup. Eventually I would suffer a collapsed lung which put a stop to many of my interviews as well as dreams to possibly enter the military. I would eventually enter into a comfortable 8 to 5 office job (which I am very thankful for), but wanted more. After hearing the possibility of receiving a medical waiver (which was incredibly fortunate and by God's grace), I would reapply...except now it was incredibly competitive. To be honest, I would not have it any way because God showed me once again that he is sovereign and is the one who's will I am under. Once I began the selection process, there was no board (where they select candidates) until now. So, the official process began in the winter of 2010, and has finally ended (well at least the selection part). It's been a long journey, but very interesting to see how my desire to serve stemmed from a young age.

"The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." Proverbs 16:9

Throughout this time of waiting, I have been shown time and time again that we are entitled to nothing. Have a grateful heart...in times of tribulation as well as blessings. Satisfaction in Christ alone.