My cousin, who served in the Navy, shared his explanation of the movie title The Best Years of Our Lives. He actually used that same phrase several times when talking to me about his own experience, albeit he served just after Vietnam, starting in 1972. He said those years in service turn you into a man. (They mature you into an adult.) The confidence you gain, the skills you learn, and the bonds you make with others are truly life-changing. And that is the best years of your life.
Which makes me think of college – how college is that same life-changing event for some: the years where you grow into yourself and have incredible new experiences, where you can look back with pride of accomplishment and with fondness. But as tough as college can be, it still isn’t bootcamp!
Before We Celebrate Another Holiday...
Outstanding Jan!
So much essential information packed into this piece. I have shared it. You really opened my eyes.
My cousin, who served in the Navy, shared his explanation of the movie title The Best Years of Our Lives. He actually used that same phrase several times when talking to me about his own experience, albeit he served just after Vietnam, starting in 1972. He said those years in service turn you into a man. (They mature you into an adult.) The confidence you gain, the skills you learn, and the bonds you make with others are truly life-changing. And that is the best years of your life.
Which makes me think of college – how college is that same life-changing event for some: the years where you grow into yourself and have incredible new experiences, where you can look back with pride of accomplishment and with fondness. But as tough as college can be, it still isn’t bootcamp!