We have known joy, sorrow, strength, weakness, and being alone in areas that were not our home. We have been raised, raised our children and participating in the next generation's path through the challenges of military life and standing up for the freedom of many.
As far back as I remember, there never was the deep desire to go to war nor harm another. There was however, the willingness to lay down our lives if need be to stop aggression on others less capable of protecting themselves. Many came back from war with Medals of honor and injury. Some gave the ultimate sacrifice. One of My Father's brothers was killed in Korea; and more recently, a cousin was killed in Afghanistan.
In my family, there was always a code of honor among us and the choice to be an Ambassador of good will and love.
Our Father was our protector, strong in commitment and gentle in leadership with a willingness to help others less capable. Our Mother taught us the importance of of being a peacemaker and maintaining the presence of caring in all the communities we lived.
Military family life often set us apart. We moved often, had few lifelong friends, and had little knowledge of where we would go next. Not all moves were wanted, nor were they friendly. Often military children and families were treated as outsiders. We could have grown up with negative energy and memories - because of our parent's love and guidance, we did not.
As a military family, we lived in many communities and even a few foreign countries. Regardless the atmosphere, our parents told us that each new community may be the only chance we had to do our best, explore the surroundings, and find what made each place special.
The thing that was always instilled in my family was that each of us were ambassadors of our family, our community and our nation - regardless the situation.
Having served as woman in the military in the field of electronics, there were additional challenges. I joined the Air Force during the Vietnam Conflict when the men and women were separated with their own units of management (WAF) while working side by side in our chosen career (electronics communication equipment repair). Guess you could say I was also a pioneer for women in non-traditional work. Recognition of being an ambassador of women's rights and capabilities was also a vital part of my journey.
Through it all the main thread that kept inspiration, positive steps, and even moments that built pride in life's participation was the result from the small, usually unnoticed, actions that were a major turning point for others struggling to find balance. I have lived and worked among war heroes, leaders, and humanitarians.
Yet, the hero of one person's heart as an ambassador of love is often the one I remember the most.
I sincerely believe that when individuals are given the chance to become a voluntary community member of good will, teams of everyday heroes will emerge from within their hometown.
They will be wearing the badge of courage for change, the strength from stepping forward and the smiles from heartfelt appreciation of those they meet.
Participating in results as an ambassador is greater than any government demands, forced responsibilities, or loss of freedoms. It is the choice to participate in life with awareness and healing while experiencing receiving more than we ever dreamed. It is the reward of community and self worth, most of all love from those whose lives you touched. All because we help create a life less taxing with controls and financial burdens while abundant the nature of an Ambassador.
We are seeking those wanting to bring back hope and healing to our hometowns and veterans. Please join us in this outreach. Each step in this process is a new step for hope and happiness. In sincere regards, Jurene Mason