a few reasons

Every branch in the military plays a vital role in our nation's security.

There are four basic reasons why I desire to be a Naval Officer.

1) Challenge

It's been a childhood dream to complete boot camp and to be pushed to the brink of breaking down. We've all watched war movies, dramas, and read countless books of military history (well at least I used to), and I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to be in that world. In addition, what an opportunity to be an instrument of national policy. Not on paper, but in day-to-day life! The challenge of knowing that what you're doing has a much bigger impact than just yourself, and the time you invest in your work is on behalf of your country. Combining that with your oversight on the growth of enlisted personnel who you are supervising...a great opportunity to be a great witness as well as develop leadership experience unmatched in the private sector.

2) Service

War is shared from generation to generation. My desire to serve is not political; rather, necessity. There is a need for leaders to lead the young men and women of our country who put their lives on the line for our safety. These leaders need to be ones who will put their lives down before anyone else, and know the grave and honorable task they have. And to think, what an amazing platform to share the gospel with others. My men would witness my character and life on a daily basis, and could then be exposed to the love of Christ in my life. To lead lovingly, but justly. May Christ be glorified. I sincerely believe leading servicemen is a duty so important that I cannot stand idly by and assume another will take the responsibility. I don't see many other occupations that can teach you service like one that forces you to put others' lives before yours every day, and to make sure they are taken care of.

3) Duty

As a young man in his 20s and blessed with good health and mind, I feel that it is my duty to dedicate myself to serving my country. Of course this could be done in countless ways, but I feel that serving in the Navy is a very direct contribution that is feasible. There are many criteria and attributes that leaders must be measured by, but I asked myself two questions before deciding to pursue an officer commission. First, would I sincerely care for my men and put their lives before mine? Second, in the midst of the chaos, am I a man who is confident in the soverienty of God? After being able to answer both questions, I feel obliged to offer myself in service to servicemen.

4) Honor

For family, for country, for God.

Why the Navy in particular?

To be perfectly honest, I wanted to be a Marine Officer in the beginning, but had to honestly assess my physical state. In addition, the Marines are rapidly downsizing (more so than the Navy) and there were basically no slots available.

The Navy has a rich tradition and a lot of flexibility for its members. Not only would I be actively serving in a diverse group of geographic arenas, but I would be trained in the specialty of my interest. Encompassing a wide range of diplomatic and combat arms in its arsenal, the modern US Navy is the force to be reckoned with. The logistical sphere the navy encompasses guarantees continued opportunity to learn and develop skills applicable to any field.

Family tradition in the Naval forces is also a big proponent of my inclination towards the Navy.

Whatever branch, I hold respect for any service member. But the Navy will always hold a special place.

Humbled and Blessed

Man, this week I have blown away at the support that has been shown to me.

This week started with great news, and has been filled with great blessings. From eating lunch with my friend Duggy again (he came back from New Zealand YWAM), running all the way up a mountain trail, catching up with old friends, and having some hot sake at Sakura, I have been so grateful for the people in my life.

Today started with a hike, finishing the Great Gatsby (wanted to re-read the novel this week), and then off to my church. My co-leader Bill had arranged a celebration/goodbye party for me at his house and had invited all our 4th grade boys and their parents. The party was 4 hours of fun: potluck, prayer, discussion with the parents, getting owned in the jumper (Bill had rented one of those big jumpy things where everyone can go inside and jump around), racing carts, water balloon fights, lava monster (a jungle gym game similar to tag), and other things that kiddos like to do. It was great for the opportunity to spend time outside of Awana with my kids and a total blessing as I read the cards they had prepared for me. I was blown away by the support the parents, students, and Bill showed and continue to show me. It was such a blessing to drive down every Friday night for the past year and a half. I will miss telling the kids to get back in line, being shown random magic tricks, listening to the new jokes/rules of elementary school, being feared by the older bullies in the T&T section, sitting with my students during lesson time, preaching short sermons during lesson time, and answering questions during handbook time. I definitely could have done a better job at getting to know the other leaders more (other than Bill) and investing more time with the students outside of Awana. But yeah, I was so humbled after the party because I did not deserve the support that has been given to me from Awana. Their efforts and blessings point to the grace that God shows us every day.

Later in the evening after a short tea session with my friend Cho, I headed over to my aunt's house for another celebration. I was blessed with the presence of many uncles, aunts, grandparents, and cousins, and of course a meal of new york steak, red potatoes, sauteed mushrooms, asparagus, new york cheescake, korean soup, and kimchi. It was remarkable to witness the support given to me there as well. It has been such a blessing to have such good role models and diligent family in my life.

There are many lessons learned from 23 years of living, but one of the most important is that nobody can give themselves all the credit. I sincerely believe there is no self-made man. I am where I am because of the support, love, and help that others have shown me...all of which I was never entitled to. Of course there have been very difficult times, but God's grace abounds in periods of abundance and in periods of little.

One day, I hope to echo Apostle Paul's words and say "I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

Lord, as many difficult times are present and in the future, may they not dictate my satisfaction in you.

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.

Strange Jobs

While finishing my hike this morning, I randomly began to review all the strange things I did for money during college. As a cash-poor young man it had seemed normal, but looking back some of the jobs seem a bit strange. Just for future reference and my own enjoyment I've decided to post a few of these jobs.

1) Product sampler - I responded to an add in the newspaper calling for students who spent 10+ hours on their computers every week. Without any specific details or instructions, there was a phone number listed as well as a promise of $50 if selected. Without thinking what I would be testing, I only thought of the $50 and how much food I could purchase with that money. Well, I ended up calling in and arranged a meeting at one of UCLA's food courts. At the meeting a middle-aged man explained to me that he would be giving me a free pair of glasses that had been designed to ease any pain or headaches that arise from constant interaction with electronics. Basically, he said that people strain their eyes too much these days and these glasses would alleviate the problem. He would then call me every couple weeks to see how the glasses were operating. I don't remember getting any follow-up calls, but I do remember being given $50 in cash and a pair of very light and cool glasses (note: I don't wear prescription glasses).

2) Survey man - I am one of thousands of UCLA students who make the trek to Public Policy to participate in the graduate students' labs. I've probably been to over 15 of these experiments in which payment is not set (stemming from bruincard credit, cash, gift cards, etc). What I enjoyed about these experiments is that I usually became deeply affected, especially by the ones in which payment is dependent on how well you play the "experimental game." In one game in particular, we played trading scenarios with other people in the room (on a computer, without knowing exactly who you would be playing with). I became furious and annoyed because there was clearly a winning strategy in which everyone would benefit, and everyone would receive the maximum award. However, due to the selfish nature and stupidity of people, some people would implement stupid trading scenarios in which they would "win" but still end up with less than they could have had if everyone won. Classic game theory. (Proper strategy-everyone wins $40...if people are stupid and just want more than others, then "winners" win $30 and "losers" win $15. Obviously if everyone wins $40, the end scenario is better).

3) Electronics seller.  Utilizing arbitrage techniques since high school, I would use any capital I had in my bank account, purchase items from auctions, then proceed to sell them to people.  At one time, my inventory included PS2s, digital cameras, Gameboys, backpacks.  I remember always worrying whether I would be able to sell the items.  When I would sell them, I would forget that worry, and purchase more.  Did this from high school to early college.  Doing this taught me the importance of cash flow, not holding too much inventory, and that I definitely don't want to be a salesman.

4) Liquor Store Cashier.  Interacting with a diverse group of people ranging from druggies, families on government assistance, businessmen, and just regular people.  It was definitely interesting to see who bought what and the loads of lotto tickets I processed.  Developed my ability to read people because you had to refine your sense of who's a thief, who's legitimate, and who could you have a normal conversation with.

5) Delivery Boy - You deliver goods, without asking what you're delivering. Then you get paid.

6) Stand in line boy - Literally you stand in line...for books, for whatever...and then you get paid.

Alright these are a few random things I've done that come immediately to mind...I'm sure everyone has had a few jobs in college that are questionable. :)

A Break in my Saturday

Walking in...

Japanese style house!

Pond with huge catfish! And little children.

Path...

Inside the Boddy House! Cute typewriter.

There is actually a lake right there...looks better from the bench I was sitting on.

Poison oak, for anyone who is curious.

I kinda went off the path (not on purpose!) and ended up at the border of the gardens (you can see the fence).

Railroad!!

Ooo...waterfall.

Really nice area...maybe have a wedding here?

The magical train!

Cool picture eh?

Finished with some cherry blossoms.

So, I decided to take a short trip to a local gem in La Canada Flintridge. I've been here 3 times in my elementary school days, and once in 8th grade when my grandmother visited from Korea. So where did I go? Descanso Gardens! This time I went by myself, and was probably the only guy in his 20's walking around solo. All around me were young and old couples, families, and girls enjoying the smell of Spring. And then there was me. I really enjoyed sitting when I wanted (almost every 10 minutes) and going off on paths that didn't really seem they were supposed to be taken. Sparing you of too many details, I would recommend anyone to visit Descanso Gardens and to really explore what it has to offer.

Basketball time!

For those of you who are following sports, the baseball season has begun, March Madness and fantasy basketball have finished.

This blog entry is dedicated to my recent fantasy basketball and March Madness experiences.

1) Fantasy Basketball

For those of you who don't know, I take pride in the fact that I often make very few moves during the season out of faith in those I drafted, even in the face of injuries to my players. However, I rejected my philosophy of loyalty in the final week, and paid the price. Over the past 2 weeks, 6 of my players have fallen victim to injury. This is devastating in fantasy play, especially since I am in the league's final championship week. As a result, I panicked and all dropped all of those players and picked up mediocre ones in their place. Keep in mind that I have been faithful to these players throughout the season. Well, it just so happened that their injuries were not so serious, and they came back to drastically outplay the new players I had just picked up. As a result, I lost this week and ended up 2nd in the standings, despite being 1st in the regular season. Ok, big deal, so I end the season with the best record, and end up 2nd in league play. Honestly, it doesn't really matter to me what place I ended up in or how well I did because in a few weeks I will forget about it and my life will be no different.

So what did I learn? To be loyal to my players? To plan in advance how to beat opponents? The most pressing lesson was to witness the ease with which I fell victim to panic and chose to react, not respond. I made a moment bigger than it was, and deviated from a strategy that had driven me to a successful season. Reacting too quickly was the problematic issue at hand.

2) March Madness

At work I joined a pool of 40 people with a $10 buy-in. At the end of the tournament, the 1st place person would be given 75% of the pot, and 2nd place 25%. Giving myself no chance to win, I merely picked teams who I liked when I watched them play during the year, and looked forward to trash talking co-workers during breaks. Two weeks into the tournament, I'm in 1st place! Just to give proof, see the above table. People at work started coming up to me and saying congratulations, it looks like you're going to finish in the top 2. As the final game between Butler and UConn came around, I was in a secure 2nd place. The only way for a different finish was if UConn won, then a co-worker in 5th would jump to 1st, and I would be left in 3rd place. When the work day finished, co-workers were surprised at my statement: I wished UConn to win. First, someone at the company would win the prize (other companies had joined). Second, I would get free lunch (winner buys everyone who had a bracket). Third, my co-worker would be super happy! Fourth, this would become a company legend, how Ben (my co-worker) was the only one who picked UConn to go all the way. If I happened to finish second, the only winner would be me because there wouldn't be enough to treat everyone to lunch, and there probably be no word on the brackets again. The best gain to be had was for me to not win any of the pot, and for my co-worker to win it all. For some reason, others could not understand this. We must seek out mutual gain scenarios, in which the most gain!

In terms of our present life, it is Christ! With Christ there is so much to gain, and it is not exclusive! Grace is offered freely to those who recognize the sinful state of their heart, see Christ for who he is, and accept the grace that has been offered through the salvation performed through the death of God's only son.

John 4:

Boasting About Tomorrow

13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”— 14 yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

Taking the year off

Last day with Al Joo at Park's BBQ. Of course, it would rain that day.

First hockey game: LA Kings Vs Anaheim Ducks

As many are aware, I spent the last 2 weeks of my UCLA collegiate career in the hospital. From that period to now, I have categorized it as "my year off."

This year has been quite the journey. No, I didn't travel very far (furthest was Orange County). No, I didn't have any graded exams (Just some Korean language and acting classes for leisure). No, I didn't have any worries of my living situation as my parents graciously let me come back home (For the record, I love living at home with my parents). Regardless of the exclusion of common past worries, this year has definitely carried its own unique weight.

This past year has been a year of rest, rehabilitation, and re-focus. I have no homework, sauna sessions at my local gym, good job with supportive management, tae kwon do class, family dinners, ministry training, opportunities to really dive into God's word, and so much more. During these months of predictable routine, I have been able to really carve and re-focus on what is important to the sustainment of my soul. It at times seems like the calm before a storm.

At the same time, this rehabilitory period has been frustrating, testing my patience, and constantly shifting of any future plans. I have been exposed to my cowardice, pride, selfish ambition, complaints, indolence, apathy, loneliness, and dependence on that which is fleeting. Honestly, it was very frustrating when I couldn't run as fast as I wanted, sing as loud as I could, or deeply breathe. There is only thing that kept me sane. The only thing that has been constant. The only thing that I could depend on. That is the word of God.

My mind, my heart, my motives...change all the time. I am fickle, capricious, and any other term that exemplifies humanity. But it is God's word that has been with me during this time. I am still timid, shy, and lack the backbone to stand up for the one who is my sustenance.

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside still water. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. -Psalms 23

I will be first to admit my lack of righteousness. And that is why I need Christ and his grace. I am confident because I have the provision of Christ. I don't have all the answers to everyone's questions, or at least the answers that people are hoping to hear. Simply put, we have sinned, deserve hell, but with the grace of God, have the opportunity to spend eternity with our creator. This may sound crazy, but its what I hold dear.

My future plans have changed wildly in the past years.

The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble...The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps... -Proverbs 16

May my plans be glorifying to God and that I may be built and molded into a man anointed and a light to this world. All I can do is be faithful, and go forward.

"You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life." -Winston Churchill

What a year off. What is meant by a year off? Every year carries its own lessons, challenges, relaxing moments, and the molding of one’s self.

I will continue to blog as one of my role models, Jimmy Carter, states in his old age that it is beneficial to share one's experiences and thoughts, especially, if one can learn from the sharing.