Just returned from the tournament banquet. One of the guys had his two grown daughters with him, and they sat across from us at dinner. They were quite a contrast.
The older one is very flighty. She reminded me of Bette Midler, both in looks and some of the mannerisms that fit her “dingy” roles. She was complaining that she was full, but still begged Daddy to take her out for some lobster bisque.
The other is a former Marine. She was in the Gulf War in 1991, and is one of the Marines who ended up with some neurological problems. There is some question as to the cause, but a dozen of them came down with the same symptoms. Because of her medication, she was medically retired–she could no longer carry a weapon and couldn’t, therefore, be a Marine. She isn’t pleased about being out of the Corps, but is moving on in her life.
I was struck with the difference. Two girls reared by the same parents with such different outlooks on life. The younger one was definitely in charge. I asked, “Which one is the Marine?” The older one was insulted. “You have to ask?” No, but thought I should. I don’t want to stereotype.
Training. Boot Camp. Life Change.
Those of us with a military background often take that training for granted. Those without it sometimes don’t understand. Self-confidence is misdiagnosed as arrogance. Maybe there is some of that, too. When dealing with those who’ve not been through it, perhaps we get a bit arrogant.
This woman wasn’t arrogant, but she had little patience with Big Sister and her whining.
With the raising of four daughters under my belt (under my maternity blouse?), I can tell you that the “raising” part is only a fraction of the whole. Each of my chicks has their own individuality and personalities. One thing they do share in commonality is the ability to speak their minds and speak it often. I wonder where they get that? *grin*
Comment by Cowtown Pattie — May 3, 2005 @ 9:16 am
I wish that I could send my wife and child to the military for just long enough to learn the virtues of putting things away, in their proper place, after use.
How many times a day at our household do I hear, I wonder where my “xxxx” is? My response being…”if you’d only learn to put things away”.
Comment by Wallace-Midland Texas — May 3, 2005 @ 10:57 am
Even outside the military you see such diversity. The hubster is the youngest of three men. His older brothers went through alcohol and drug problems starting in Junior high. In high school, he had management responsibility for the cattle ranch, while his older brothers got arrested for selling pot, etc. Same parents, only 5 years total age spread – and look at the differences!
The good news is that they are all contributing members of society now – but it is interesting…
Comment by Barb — May 3, 2005 @ 12:26 pm