My Duty as an Airman and Veteran

I am thanked far too often for my service in the military. Perhaps that doesn't apply to all veterans, but there was nothing heroic about my enlistment or the time I spent in the Air Force. If the truth is told, I joined the Air Force because I was causing too many problems at home. I'm not the only person who enlisted for that reason.

Everyone who joins the military must swear to defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic, and we took that oath just before they shipped us off to basic military training. From there, I was sent to the 62nd Civil Engineering Squadron, and more specifically to the heating shop. Though I liked the work and the people at my main job, my favorite duty was as a member of the Honor Guard.

Dealing With Social Anxiety and Extroverted Friends

I am an introvert. I can fake my way through social situations, but I'd rather not. I also have social anxiety. It may or may not be consequential to being an introvert, but it is not the same thing. Being an introvert makes me introspective and observant rather than outgoing and gregarious. Social anxiety makes me feel anxious at the prospect of gathering with groups of people for the purpose of mingling.

When I let friends know that my social anxiety causes me to not show up to parties or events even when I intend to go to them, some of them encourage me to "face my fears" and go to parties. I am not afraid of parties; I get anxious at the prospect of gathering with groups for the purpose of mingling. It causes me to find excuses to not show up at events I have said I would attend.

What is the Difference Between Our Spirits and Our Souls?

This question begs an answer that is largely one of faith. I believe it virtually impossible for one person to show another person proof of a definitive truth. As such, I offer this only as my opinion.

The difference between one's spirit and one's soul is the difference between light and gravity. Light and gravity are not opposite forces; in fact, light is not a force at all.