Today my textbooks for my second semester arrived and I can’t believe how much more confident I am! Three months ago I was awkwardly introducing myself to my peers and I had this overwhelming feeling like I would be among people I do not belong around. It was a rather stressful few weeks getting used to studying and imprinting information into my habits and routines again.
When I began my studies in graduate school I was a regular face at Scott Air Force Base. My wife and I were newlyweds and I was beginning a new chapter in my life. I was rather well adjusted to the world around me after my time overseas in the early 2000s. I spent my time in counseling and was learning leadership and management skills exponentially. I was determined to make the most of my time in the Air Force before I got out and was well on my way to becoming more like the Psychologist I dreamt of being one day. I just had to listen to my mentors and keep going.
After my time in Camp Bucca, Iraq I allowed myself to lose that spark of curiosity. That thing so many people feel and ignore. The question of WHY? Why do we love? I understand why we hate. Believe me, true hatred transcends racism and sexism. When someone is launching artillery at you, that type of hatred is a step above those. The true reason why we kill each other is NOT the reason most people think it is. Neither is the reason why we love, for that matter.
I realize everyday I do not look at people the same way as most of you do anymore. I just don’t.
One of my professors told me as a Doctoral student I have transcended 90% of most fellow Americans. I replied telling her I was ashamed of a lot of things I have done in my life. She told me only I can can control my feelings of shame. No one else. Because I was in the military, I am unlike 98% of the American population. Because I retired from the military I am an even smaller part of that 2% that have served. And because I wish to fulfill my Ph.D dream in Psychology and change the world I’ve arrived at an even smaller percentage of peers I now exist within. I have found where I belong once again.
“Dominick, you are as genuine as every other person on the face of this planet. And just like everyone else it is okay to question yourself. Only YOU have control over whether you belong here or not.”
Thank you all for LIKING, SUBSCRIBING and SHARING. I’m about to start my second semester and I’m really excited. I cannot express to you how much I appreciate those of you following along with me on this journey. One day I will walk across that stage in my graduation gown and it will be YOU I have to thank. So let me start right now. THANKS. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR BELIEVING IN ME. You help me believe in myself.
You’re Welcome. Internet.
