Blog Posts
Apr 11, 2025
Crossing the Threshold Back to the Ordinary World
Shared by Jason Roncoroni:What I always find interesting about this challenge is the lack of investment from the militar...
Shared by Jason Roncoroni:What I always find interesting about this challenge is the lack of investment from the military to help people leave. I know. It sounds counterintuitive. Just hear me out. We have an involved process to prepare men and women for deployment. In the army we called this the Soldier Readiness Processing (SRP). Included are activities like life insurance (SGLI), powers of attorney, and wills. We even take a “death” photo - the picture that will memorialize your service should you not come home. We take such care and precaution in the event that you die, but what preparation occurs when you leave the other way? You know, out the front gate? Does the unit do your headshot? Do they have one-on-one counseling about your resume in the same way that you talk to an attorney about your life insurance payments and the location of your will? No. We don’t do any of this - even though we should.For an institution that openly preaches empathy for the service member and compassion for the family, it should surprise you to learn that we do relatively nothing when it comes to the most difficult part of the entire military journey - leaving. Crossing that threshold back into society. I know we feel pressure to meet retention objectives, and we want good service members to stay. But here’s the thing: sooner or later, everyone leaves. Nobody gets to stay forever. From the youngest first term soldier to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, everyone either leaves by way of a memorial service or by driving out the front gate. How is it that we excel to support one and fail so miserably in the other? The purpose of this article is to explore what you can do as an organizational leader or a transitioning service member to address this shortfall in how we bridge the gap between the military and civilian world. Now, I know you can’t simply walk away. That isn’t who you are. You can’t throw yourself into the job until the day you leave either. But that doesn’t help anyone. Not the unit. Not you. In order to address this challenge, let’s start by exploring the organizational perspective. More specifically, let's talk about how your supervisors and commanders shape your final 12 months in the military. Typically this can occur in one of three ways: banishment, punishment, or empowerment. Banishment, Punishment, or Empowerment Banishment refers to the leadership state of mind. The idea that you are treated differently because you made the choice to leave. It represents the mental, emotional, and psychological response to the idea of someone exiting the breach. Leaving the band of brothers. Some might even say you are quitting. Hell, you might even think that about yourself. This will typically present itself through passive aggressive behaviors that build until you reach a breaking point. Along the way, it erodes trust. It can destroy relationships. It could sour your reputation and your memory of the service. Both sides throw up their arms in anger because they aren’t getting what they need from the other. Insecure leaders will grieve the loss of your contribution on their watch, not your companionship or fellowship. Insecure transitioning service members will assume that the unit is screwing them. The end result is a bad breakup. Nobody wins. Punishment can be an intentional or incidental response. Leaders react to the potential exit of a service member by squeezing every ounce of productivity from them. They may not say it, but they feel like that person is letting the rest of the team down. How could they be so selfish? Thinking about themselves when there is so much to do? In most cases, they set unrealistic workload expectations. Almost prohibiting any opportunity to handle their transition gracefully. They tell themselves it is for the good of the unit, but is it really? Let me ask this a different way: Would you want the same treatment when it is your time to leave? The service member pushes back accordingly through a lack of commitment, communication, or intentional scheduling of events at the most inconvenient times. The relationship crumbles. Once again, nobody wins. Empowerment is the best choice - and naturally the hardest. Leaders who preach care and compassion for the service member embrace the unit’s responsibility to support that family through their transition. Read that sentence again. It’s hard because separation preparation isn’t included in monthly reporting. Nobody has any understanding of what it takes and nobody cares - until it is their turn. How do you know if you are doing it right in your unit? I’ll give you a hint, if you don’t do anything different between how you manage a separation from the military from a reassignment to another unit, you aren’t doing it right. We can’t say that we care about our people and then ignore the most significant and most difficult challenge of military service. The mission should not be an excuse because EVERY unit goes through this. Just like every unit has to manage injuries and profiles. Just like every unit has to manage paternal/maternal leave. Just like every unit has to manage dental readiness. If you are not engaged and active in how you help shape the individual’s transition process, then you aren’t taking care of them or the unit you serve. Keep Talking: Action and Conditions Based Transition Management Everything in the separating service member’s life is about to change - job, relationships, and routines. It requires active planning and conversations to ensure that this process can meet the needs of the individual and the needs of the unit. Bear in mind that most leaders have no personal experience in this endeavor. Many only realize the inadequacy of unit support when it is their turn to leave. For most of the service members, this is their first time, too. That is why your leadership efforts are so important. Proactive communication and ongoing dialogue are essential. Doing it right sets the conditions for the success and wellbeing of the veteran and creates a positive ambassador for military service in their community. There are two basic strategies regarding how you manage a separating service member. One is action focused, and the other is conditions based. The action approach is ideal when a transitioning service member has a number of important, scheduled responsibilities that are essential for the success of the unit. Inspections, operational requirements, deployments, investigations, equipment fielding, change of commands, etc. It is a collaborative planning process between the transitioning service member and leadership to build a synchronized schedule with expectations for all parties involved. A conditions based approach might be better suited when the individual has responsibilities tied to the position. Command is one such example. The individual must complete property transfer, evaluations, awards, etc. Again, this establishes expectations about what success looks like while giving the service member the freedom to schedule retirement or separation requirements. These strategies can only succeed with active communication. If you are the transitioning service member, remember that - in most cases - your leaders have no understanding of what you are going through. So, tell them. Be transparent. If you are the supervisor, remember that this process is naturally scary. Even terrifying. The longer they’ve been wearing the uniform, the more afraid they will be. Rank has nothing to do with it. It is a function of adult psychology. The opportunity for the leader is to set an example of what it means to take care of the member and their family. The opportunity for the transitioning service member is to define what success looks like for the organization. For both the transitioning leader and the unit, the opportunity to build trust and confidence for everyone else who is watching - because everyone is. I challenge every leader to think about what steps they are taking to prepare the men and women in their formation to cross the threshold back into society. Set the conditions for YOUR veterans to flourish. Isn’t that the example we want to set for everyone else in the unit? If done well, we populate our communities with veterans who are thriving. The alternative is a population of people who are stuck between the military and civilian world. Many are lost. Many are languishing. And remember, that might be you a few years from now. After all, everybody leaves. Nobody gets to stay forever.
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Mar 27, 2025
Programming Spotlight Update
COMMIT conducted a Transition Mentoring Workshop in Washington, D.C. on February 11-12 hosted by Greenberg Traurig Law Firm. The workshop included 21 selected Fellows and 8 Mentors. This workshop also included our first event in conjunction with the Premier Lacrosse League. The group braved a winter weather advisory and 6-8” of snow to attend a lacrosse game in Springfield, VA. The workshop culminated in an alumni social hosted at GT Law on Feb 12th which brought together local alums to share a drink and a story with those Fellows attending the workshop. This was also the first workshop in which we gave the Fellows and Mentors our new COMMIT lapel pin. “Having participated in several veteran transition programs, I can confidently say that COMMIT stands in a league of its own. The experience was truly transformative and highly recommend for any vets navigating the next chapter.” - Bill Phillips, Navy CDR. On February 13 Adrianne Huls, director of veteran services, shared information with 45 service members and their spouses transitioning from the Joint Special Operations Center at Fort Liberty. COMMIT Fellow Travis Grapes extended the invitation because as he shared, “COMMIT is getting it right!”
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Mar 19, 2025
Finding the Blind Spots: Unconscious Biases that Impact Your Personal Transformation
Written and shared by Jason Roncoroni Unconscious biases. We all have them. We don’t know we have them. That’s the point. They come from our upbringing. They are largely influenced by our culture. If you spent a lifetime in the military, you are attuned to a military view of the world. This shapes how you perceive, interpret, and understand the world in which you live and operate. It also influences how you approach leaving the military. Unfortunately, many of these deeply held biases of military culture can adversely impact the approach and effectiveness of your transition. Let’s explore some of these unconscious biases and potential steps to address them. Rejection - The Power of NO We don’t handle rejection well. It comes with consequences. Many of them are significant. Think about the impact of being a non-select for a nominative opportunity, promotion, assignment location, or command. Rejections have a certain finality. In many cases, you get one shot. Any follow-on or subsequent opportunity comes with reduced probabilities. When a door closes, it shuts forever. Therefore, you do everything you can to avoid hearing the word “NO.” If you’ve been successful in the military, you aren’t used to rejection. Hearing ‘yes’ is something to which you’ve grown accustomed. It is how you achieved your current station. Rejection may be something completely foreign to you. It makes you uncomfortable. So much so that it becomes an obstacle. It may just conjure enough self-doubt and imposter syndrome to inhibit you from taking action. You hide behind excuses, “I can’t break myself away from my important job,” “I don’t have a robust network,” or “I have to wait until I get my resume together.” Sound familiar? These are delaying actions to mitigate the risk of rejection. Nobody likes rejection. Nobody wants to hear the word ‘no.’ That said, the world outside the military doesn’t put as much emphasis on it as we do. Successful leaders in the civilian world hear ‘no’ all the time. In fact, the most successful business leaders had to push through that rejection to find a path to success. They learned that failure isn’t a function of the situation. It is a choice. It is something you accept when you stop trying . . . or when you never start. Hearing ‘no’ is just a part of the journey. Patience - Don’t Take Things Personally Let’s be honest. Patience is something we don’t have. Especially when it comes to communication. We respond quickly. We act decisively. We expect others to do the same. When we don’t hear from someone after 24-48 hours, we become anxious. Maybe even a little pissed off. Active communication with immediate responses are norms in our military culture. The same is not true outside the military. It is not a lack of respect. It doesn't mean that the organization has a different set of values. It is a disparity between how we are used to communicating in the military and how people communicate outside the military. When you have an interview or reach out to someone for a networking call, you expect an immediate - or near immediate - response. After the conversation, you start checking your email. Then a day passes. Two days. A week. You become unsettled. You grow angry. You wouldn’t tolerate this in the military. It is disrespectful. So we take it personally. In most cases, their approach to communication has nothing to do with you. They have their own communication habits that simply don’t align to your expectations. How do you bridge the gap? Whenever you have a conversation, set a clear intention for the next conversation. Know who you will talk to and when you plan on talking. This mitigates uncertainty. If there is no clear “next step,” then create it. Ask permission to reach out to them after a month or two to follow up. You are showing them respect by asking permission, and you signal to them that the conversation will continue. This is how you validate expectations between two parties from different cultural norms for communication. The Nature of Leader Conversations Hiring senior leaders doesn’t follow the prototypical hiring process. You may never talk to a recruiter. You may never have a formal interview. You may be surprised with how a conversation progresses. Remember, senior leaders make up only about 7 percent of the transitioning population each year. Most of what you are told through formal transition programs and what you read on LinkedIn are focused on the other 93 percent of people in the transition process. It is just different for military leaders entering retirement. Conversations at the senior level are not transactional. They are more strategic. In many cases, the conversations you are having are for positions that are NOT currently advertised. Think about how you would hire senior level positions in your organization. I am willing to bet that you are exploring potential hires well before the job comes available. Ideally, you have the person identified in advance of any potential vacancy. If you wait to look for jobs that are posted - chances are that you are too late. Networking doesn’t begin and end with securing a job. The nature of conversations in the senior hiring process is to communicate your value for opportunities that align with your leadership potential and capabilities. In some cases, employers may create a position because they value what you might bring to the team. Focusing on a specific job title or role is a very limiting and reactive approach to the employment process. In order to create more freedom of maneuver, invest in the relationship. Remember, you may choose to leave that first job. Having built and expanded relationships will keep the proverbial door open for future opportunities with multiple employers. The only way to address unconscious biases is to become aware of situations that bring out these behaviors. If you have an initial, negative reaction to something - pause. Take a breath. Challenge the assumptions you are making about yourself and others. Consider a more open minded approach. Think about how your current approach is helping or hurting you, and make the necessary adjustments. Finally, have some grace. It may take some time to change the behavior. That is totally normal. It is okay to be upset or disappointed, but the challenge is to consider how you can move forward. How you learn. How you grow. Growth is inherently uncomfortable. Get used to it. Only by going through this can we truly transform. To find that opportunity on the other side.
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Jan 30, 2025
The Power of Mentorship: The Heartbeat of COMMIT’s Workshops
The COMMIT Foundation–January 30, 2024 As we close out National Mentor Appreciation Month, we at The COMMIT Foundation want to take a moment to highlight the incredible mentors who make our mission possible. Our workshops—held across the country—are designed to help those who have served and their spouses navigate their next chapter with confidence. But what truly sets these experiences apart is the wisdom, guidance, and genuine investment of our mentors. These mentors don’t just show up; they pour themselves into the process. They take time away from their demanding careers and personal lives to teach, guide, and expand the networks of those we serve. Many of them are former COMMIT fellows—individuals who once sat on the other side of the table, asking the same questions and facing the same uncertainties. Having walked this path before, they return as mentors to ensure others don’t have to navigate transformation alone. Choosing the Right Mentors for Each Workshop Selecting the right mentors for each workshop is a process we take seriously. Every event is carefully curated to ensure that the mentors align with the needs of the fellows in the room. From the very first outreach text or email, we consider factors such as industry expertise, leadership experience, and, most importantly, the ability to connect with and empower those who have served and their spouses. Our goal is to create a dynamic room filled with those who can inspire, challenge, and open doors for our fellows—because mentorship is not just about giving advice; it’s about investing in potential. Each workshop follows a structured flow: Before the Workshop – Our team works diligently to match mentors with the right cohort. We ensure that every mentor understands our mission, their role in the process, and what they can expect. This preparation phase lays the foundation for meaningful conversations and impactful connections. During the Workshop – Mentors and Fellows engage in deep, honest conversations about career paths, leadership, and personal growth. The mentors don’t dictate; they listen. They help Fellows clarify their goals, challenge limiting beliefs, and provide real-world insight that transforms and feels more like an opportunity than a challenge. After the Workshop – The relationships built don’t end when the workshop ends. Many mentors continue to support their Fellows, offering guidance long after the event. Some mentors even become lifelong advocates, helping Fellows navigate career changes, find meaningful work, and expand their networks in ways they never thought possible. More Than a Workshop—A Lifelong Commitment What makes our mentors extraordinary is their unwavering belief in the Fellows. They don’t participate for recognition or personal gain; they do it because they care. They see the untapped potential in each person, and they know the power of a single conversation, a well-placed connection, or a word of encouragement at the right moment. For many, mentoring at a COMMIT workshop isn’t just a one-time experience—it’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship. They remain part of our community, investing in the success of others just as someone once invested in them. So, as National Mentor Appreciation Month comes to a close, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the mentors who make our workshops what they are. Thank you for believing in our mission, but most importantly, thank you for believing in those we serve. Your guidance, generosity, and commitment change lives—one conversation at a time. If a mentor has impacted you, take a moment to thank them. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor at one of our future workshops, we’d love to hear from you. At COMMIT, we know that when one person succeeds, we all succeed!
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Jan 13, 2025
COMMIT: A Self-Actualization Organization for High-Potential Individuals
COMMIT: A Self-Actualization Organization for High-Potential Individuals When individuals transition from one significant life chapter to another—whether it’s leaving a career in the military, pivoting from corporate roles, or seeking purpose after major life changes—the journey can feel challenging, overwhelming, and at times, isolating. COMMIT is here to change that. It’s more than a transition assistance organization for military members and their spouses; it’s a partner in the journey toward self-actualization, helping high-potential individuals realize their fullest potential. Beyond the Next Job: Finding Purpose and Direction For high-potential individuals, the need extends far beyond simply finding a new role. They’re searching for meaning, direction, and a sense of purpose that aligns with their values and strengths. COMMIT’s approach focuses on guiding individuals to uncover what drives them, exploring passions and ambitions in deeply personal and transformative ways. This journey aligns with the core of self-actualization, encouraging individuals to move beyond the basics and embrace a purpose that resonates with them on a profound level. Through COMMIT’s tailored programs, participants engage in self-discovery and work to redefine their goals in ways that honor their unique skills and experiences. By shifting the focus from “what’s next” to “what’s meaningful,” COMMIT empowers individuals to pursue paths that bring them a sense of fulfillment and alignment with their personal aspirations. Rediscovering Identity Through Transition Identity is often closely tied to one’s role, especially for high-potential individuals who have dedicated themselves to intense, purpose-driven careers. As they transition, many find themselves asking, “Who am I beyond my title or achievements?” COMMIT addresses this crucial aspect by guiding participants to explore and rediscover their core identity. Through reflection and coaching, individuals are encouraged to look beyond their previous roles and consider who they want to become. COMMIT provides tools and support that help participants define a new sense of self that isn’t just tied to what they’ve done but to who they truly are and what they want to contribute to the world. This process of identity exploration lays the foundation for personal growth and self-actualization, allowing individuals to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and authenticity. Embracing a Growth Mindset: Lifelong Learning and Adaptability Self-actualization isn’t a final achievement but an ongoing journey. COMMIT embodies this philosophy by encouraging a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous personal development. High-potential individuals often have an innate drive to grow and improve, and COMMIT’s resources enable them to expand their horizons, cultivate new skills, and embrace new challenges with confidence. The organization’s coaching and mentorship emphasize the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the courage to navigate uncertainty—traits that are critical for anyone striving to reach their highest potential. By encouraging individuals to adopt a mindset of curiosity and openness, COMMIT equips them not just to transition but to thrive, continually evolving in both their personal and professional lives. The Power of Community: Finding a Tribe High-potential individuals often crave a sense of community and belonging, particularly when navigating significant life transitions. COMMIT recognizes this and creates a supportive network where individuals can connect with others who share similar values and aspirations. This community aspect is essential to self-actualization, as personal growth flourishes when people feel understood, supported, and valued. COMMIT’s focus on building a tribe goes beyond networking; it’s about creating a lasting, meaningful support system that extends far beyond an individual’s time in the program. The organization fosters connections that provide ongoing encouragement and inspiration, helping individuals stay engaged and motivated on their journey to self-actualization. Channeling Service Beyond Self High-potential individuals are often driven by a desire to contribute to something greater than themselves. COMMIT understands this desire and helps individuals find ways to channel their passion for service into new avenues—whether that’s business, community leadership, or other areas where they can make an impact. Through its programs, COMMIT encourages individuals to harness their unique talents and experiences, aligning their strengths with opportunities to serve and lead. By helping participants discover how they can contribute meaningfully, COMMIT transforms the transition process into a journey of self-actualization, where individuals are inspired to realize their potential and make a lasting impact. A True Partner in Transformation Most transition assistance programs focus on short-term outcomes like job placement, but COMMIT’s approach is different. By addressing the full spectrum of what high-potential individuals need to thrive, COMMIT serves as a partner in each individual’s journey toward self-actualization. This holistic approach helps individuals not only achieve their immediate goals but also continue to grow, adapt, and find fulfillment over the long term. Through its emphasis on growth, purpose, community, and contribution, COMMIT is a self-actualization organization that empowers individuals to reach new heights. By supporting the journey toward self-awareness, personal alignment, and a life of meaning, COMMIT provides a pathway for individuals to thrive as leaders, innovators, and changemakers in all facets of life. In a world where people often feel defined by their roles or accomplishments, COMMIT redefines success by helping individuals unlock their full potential. The organization is dedicated to the belief that high-potential individuals have the power to make a difference, not only in their own lives but also in the world around them. By embracing self-actualization, COMMIT inspires a future where everyone can live with purpose, passion, and the conviction to contribute positively to society. That’s the power of COMMIT, and that’s the heart of self-actualization.
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Jan 3, 2025
Moving Forward Together
Moving Forward TogetherBy: Lisa Vargas As the new year begins, it’s a time of fresh starts and opportunities to set meaningful intentions. For those who have served, the skills, values, and leadership cultivated in the military or intelligence community provide a unique platform to continue impacting civilian life. Whether through mentoring, volunteering, or pursuing personal growth, your contributions can inspire and uplift others in powerful ways. Here are some ideas to consider for making a meaningful impact in the year ahead. 1. Mentor the Next Generation Your experiences can provide invaluable guidance to others navigating their transitions. Whether it’s a fellow veteran, a transitioning service member, or a young professional in your community, offering mentorship is a meaningful way to pay it forward. How to Get Started: Volunteer with veteran-focused organizations like The COMMIT Foundation, participate in mentorship programs or simply reach out to someone you think could benefit from your guidance. 2. Volunteer in Your Community Giving your time to causes you care about can create positive change. Veterans and those who have served bring discipline, organization, and passion to every endeavor. Look for opportunities to get involved with nonprofits, schools, or community projects. Ideas to Explore: • Participate in local events like 5K runs or fundraising drives. • Volunteer at a food bank or shelter. • Join veteran-focused organizations to connect with others while giving back. 3. Advocate for Causes That Matter Leverage your voice to raise awareness for issues that impact the veteran and military communities, such as mental health, career transitions, and family support. Advocacy can take many forms, from sharing your story to influencing policy changes. How to Get Involved: Join local or national advocacy groups, participate in awareness campaigns, or use social media to amplify your message. 4. Focus on Personal Growth Making an impact doesn’t always require outward action—it can start with focusing on your own growth. Setting intentions for the new year around personal or professional goals can ripple outwards, inspiring those around you to do the same. Examples: • Enroll in a course or program to develop a new skill. • Dedicate time to physical and mental well-being. • Pursue opportunities for career growth or transitions. 5. Build Stronger Connections Relationships are at the heart of impact. Foster meaningful connections to strengthen bonds with family, friends, and your broader community. Ideas: •Organize a local meetup for veterans. •Spend quality time with loved ones. •Engage in online communities like The COMMIT Foundation’s COMMunITy platform to connect with others who share your journey. 6. Inspire Through Action Sometimes, leading by example is the best way to make an impact. Whether in your workplace, community, or family, your resilience, integrity, and dedication can inspire others to take positive steps in their own lives.
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Nov 19, 2024
Witnessing the Best of Humanity: A Week of Inspiration
Witnessing the Best of Humanity: A Week of Inspiration Written by: JC Glick November 19, 2024 Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with some of our nation's most exceptional individuals has been a privilege in just one week. First, spending time with high-potential service members navigating the challenging yet exciting transition to their next chapters is an honor. These men and women, who have already given so much, are now stepping into new roles with the same discipline, determination, and purpose they’ve honed over years of service. It is inspiring to see and be part of that journey with them. Then, I had the privilege to go to West Point and speak with cadets who were preparing to take on the immense responsibility of leading the best fighting force the world has ever seen. For over 200 years, West Point has been a place where leaders of character are forged. These cadets are warrior-scholars, driven not just by a desire to lead but by a commitment to serve. Engaging with people at such pivotal moments in their lives is humbling—whether they’re leaving the uniform behind or just putting it on. These cadets and service members represent the best of who we are as a military, as a country, and as a people: courageous, thoughtful, and ready to make a difference in the world. When we look at the future of our military—and our nation—we can’t help but feel hopeful. These people understand what it means to serve others and lead with purpose. They don’t shy away from challenges; they embrace them. They don’t wait for someone else to step up; they are the ones who step up. Thank you to the cadets at West Point and the transitioning service members this week. Thank you for your commitment, vision, and willingness to lead when it matters most. It’s an honor to work with you, learn from you, and walk alongside you as you shape what’s next—for yourselves, our military, and our nation.
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Nov 5, 2024
Veterans: The Beacon of Unity in a Polarized Nation
Published June 5, 2024 by JC Glick This article was originally published in The Havok Journal Link: https://havokjournal.com/veter... The other day, I was on a call with a former Navy SEAL. Now, if you know anything about the friendly rivalries within the military, you’ll know that getting a Ranger and a SEAL to agree on something is almost as rare as a unicorn sighting (sometimes we agree with hair products, but they have more experience in that realm). But there we were, both acknowledging the same truth: the future of our nation depends on unity, and veterans hold the key. We joked that if we could agree, then surely anyone could. This tongue-in-cheek story underscores a serious point: unity is within our reach. In a time when our nation seems more divided than ever, veterans stand as a testament to unity. We come from a background where meritocracy reigns supreme, where the content of our character and our commitment to the mission far outweigh any differences in identity. We are first and foremost former military, then members of our respective branches, and finally defined by our specialties. Way down the list of how we identify are our personal identities. Our individual identities can be acknowledged and celebrated for the grand mosaic they create of our nation, but must take a backseat to what we hold paramount: our unity.Within the military, camaraderie and respect transcend all else. Rangers and SEALs might debate who is tougher, aviators from different branches might argue about who is more skilled, and Marines might fight with everyone. Yet, these differences, which even we view internally as trivial, never interfere with our unity. We didn’t choose our comrades; we chose the military, and with that choice came the acceptance of each individual for who they are. We don’t need symbols, special days, or months to know each one of us is important. We understand deeply that we need each other. Are there still issues within the service and among veterans? Yes, but they are far fewer than anywhere else because we are constantly reminded that disunity leads to failure. This is the first lesson taught when one enters service: you don’t have to like your teammates, but you must respect them and be a good teammate, or you will fail. No identity should ever be vilified or thought of as less than another. Each person’s value lies in their unique contribution to the collective whole. By merely being human, they bring something irreplaceable to the table. We are all equal, and we are all Americans. The strength of our nation comes from this very diversity, and it is our unity amidst this diversity that propels us forward. So, we can celebrate diversity in that it creates amazing unity, and the diversity of this nation makes our unity that much more incredible. Our ranks reflect the diversity of America itself. We come from every walk of life, every demographic, and every corner of this nation. We see serving our country not as a right but as a privilege. This profound sense of duty and honor binds us together, transcending all other differences. It is this shared commitment to a greater cause that unifies us, making our bonds stronger and our resolve unshakable. Our nation is at a critical juncture. There are many out there who benefit from a divided America, who gain when we segment ourselves into groups. They thrive on an “us vs. them” mentality, weakening our collective strength. However, veterans have an opportunity to change this narrative. We can set the example and lead, demonstrating that disagreement doesn’t preclude us from recognizing our shared identity as Americans. In the military, unity isn’t a mere buzzword—it’s a lifeline. We learned early on that our success, our very survival, depended on our ability to work together despite our differences. This lesson is drilled into every service member from day one. It’s not just about teamwork; it’s about a profound respect for each individual’s role and the recognition that every member of the team is essential to the mission’s success. This ingrained understanding of unity can serve as a powerful model for our nation. We can draw from our military experience to foster a sense of national unity. Consider the diverse backgrounds of those who serve: different races, religions, political beliefs, and socioeconomic statuses. Despite these differences, we managed to work together seamlessly because we focused on our common goal. This same principle can be applied to our country. We must focus on what unites us rather than what divides us. Our shared identity as Americans should be our rallying point. There is no reason not to be proud to be an American. We must judge our nation not only by its history or its mistakes but by its entire journey, where we stand today and the promise of tomorrow. We continue to be a beacon of hope and freedom—a shining light on a hill. People still flock to our country, eager to become Americans, drawn by the promise of this great nation. You don’t have to love your government, but you should love the promise of your country. Governments can change, but the promise of America remains as bright today as ever through both our triumphs and our trials. Veterans today have a unique opportunity to lead the way toward national unity. We have experienced firsthand the strength that comes from working together despite our differences. Let’s not fall into the traps that ensnare so many others. Let’s lead the way in finding paths to unity. Don’t let personal issues hinder our collective strength. Seek ways to agree, or at the very least, understand the other point of view. Accept differences and find a way to come together. This is a call to action. Let’s inspire our fellow Americans to unify, to see beyond our differences, and to strive together towards a brighter future. As veterans, we’ve always known that our strength lies in unity. Now, more than ever, it’s time to remind our nation of that truth.
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Oct 29, 2024
A Life Prepared, a Life Missed: Lessons from a Neighbor's Journey
Written by Jason Roncoroni, Executive Leadership and Positive Psychology Coaching MCC, MBA, MS October 29, 2024 I want to share with you a story about a man I see walking in my neighborhood. He is an older gentleman - slightly older than me. Sometimes, I see with his wife, but most of the time, he walks alone. His life is largely a mystery. I know he was a pilot. He flew for the navy. When he retired from the military, he became a commercial pilot. When he retired from the airlines, he moved to Florida. He purchased his retirement home in my neighborhood. He had, by all accounts, he did everything he was supposed to do. Took the right jobs. He was prudent with his money. Saved so his kids could go to college. Still has plenty of money in the bank with a blossoming retirement. Logically, he did everything right. But I never sense any gratitude, satisfaction, or happiness. I learned a little about his personal life in the few conversations I’ve had with him when retrieving mail. I know he has two children. Both boys. One has his own business as a plumber. He never went to college. His other son became an officer in the Air Force. ROTC scholarship. Apparently, they didn’t need the college fund he prioritized throughout his life. Both of them have families of their own. I’ve never seen them visit. He described their relationship as “complicated.” He is quick to blame the military and the airlines for robbing his kids of a father. He bought a Porsche. I’ve never seen him drive it. He keeps it under a tarp in the very back of his garage. He also installed a pool. Top of the line. Outdoor kitchen, television, sound system, and exquisite landscaping with an outdoor deck and dining area. It was an ideal layout for parties, but I never see anyone in the pool. The TV is never on. I don’t see anyone visiting for dinner outside. Sometimes, I see him waving to kids passing by on their bikes. He stands outside the playground to watch the kids on the swings. I am struck by this metaphor for his life. Watching people experience happiness without ever really being happy. His facial expression is always the same - like that of a child who behaved all year long only to wake up on Christmas morning without any presents under the tree. He is like a ghost condemned to roam the streets to witness the life that passed him by. He spent his whole life being prudent. Never took a risk. Now that he is ready to enjoy the magic of his life, it seems to have passed him by. He has everything he thought he wanted and nothing of value. At this point in his life, the one thing he wants is time. He invested the moments in the present for the false promise of happiness in the future. Now that his future is here, he longs for the moments that are gone forever. I don’t pity him, but I am uncomfortable around him. He lived the life I don’t want. He lived without ever truly being alive. How I choose to live my life today will impact the relationships I hold so dear. It isn’t about the money. It isn’t about the college fund. It isn’t about retirement - because retirement may never come. I want to live today. I don’t want to be the ghost roaming my neighborhood, haunted by the life that passed me by. So, what will you do today to experience the life you may not have tomorrow? What will you do to invest in your relationships now?
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Oct 24, 2024
Empowering Military Spouses: Confidence, Community, and New Possibilities with The COMMIT Foundation
By: Gabriela Q. Bell, Founder & CEO Organized Q Mentoring at the COMMIT Foundation’s first in-person military spouse workshop in DC was an incredibly fulfilling experience. The COMMIT Foundation’s mission of providing service members, veterans, and their spouses with the information, confidence, and imagination to succeed was evident throughout the workshop. By helping these military spouses articulate their skills and explore new possibilities, COMMIT equips them with the tools to envision a fulfilling future. It was an honor to be part of this process, watching participants’ confidence soar and set ambitious goals for themselves, knowing that they have the resources and support to achieve them. Last week, as a COMMIT mentor, I had the privilege of working with several military spouses, each at a unique crossroads in their personal and professional journeys. Together, we spent time discussing their aspirations, identifying transferable skills, and exploring the possibilities that lay ahead for them. Their openness and resilience were truly inspiring. As a former military spouse, I know the complexities of navigating career and life transitions alone. Still, with the help of organizations like COMMIT, the process becomes far less lonely and daunting. What stood out to me most during the workshop was how COMMIT’s mission came to life. The focus on providing not just meaningful information and practical exercises but also helping to bolster the confidence and imagination to re-envision what is possible was evident in every conversation. It was incredibly rewarding to witness these spouses rediscover their strengths and begin to set bold new goals. The workshop and curriculum weren’t just about career advice—it was about helping them realize their potential and build the future they want and deserve. I’m thankful to have been a small part of these spouses’ journey of determination to find their next best step and fulfillment amidst the challenges of military life. The COMMIT Foundation’s work empowers military spouses to embrace their potential and redefine their roles in both professional and personal capacities, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for this often-overlooked community. If you’re looking for ways to help military spouses, service members, and veterans in the transition to civilian life, please consider donating to the COMMIT Foundation.
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