Knowing Where You've Been & Where You're Going

My wife and I just returned from vacation to WV and KY.

This vacation was a bit unique since as an Army retiree we stayed on three military bases during our out of state excursion.

While at Hunter Army Airfield we were booked at the (far too expensive for a military facility) hundred dollar a night motel. On our single night there, I decided to take a walk; a walk which was scheduled to last 45 minutes

... but which turned into a two hour trek.

While I had planned to take basically the same route which I had chosen a few years ago, I failed to notice the name of the street from which I started my quest. (Bad move). I passed the base gas station, the athletic field, the fitness center, the base chapel, the motor pool, a cemetery, base housing, and eventually found myself walking back towards the gate from which we entered the military facility, (and our motel room).

... wrong gate!

I will admit it now. I saw two or three soldiers from whom I could have asked directions. But as a retired reservist with 35 years service, I figured they'd smile and give me directions, and go back and tell their buddies what a loser that old soldier wannabe was.

Ultimately, and just before I phone my wife, (another potential embarrassing scenario) I recognized a few landmarks which took me back from whence I began my quest. To say I was relieved would be an understatement.

Moral of the story:

Even an old war horse can use a little help now and then.

(and)

A good start is a natural prerequisite for a good finish.


By William McDonald, PhD. Excerpt from "(Mc)Donald's Daily Diary" Vol. 11