Passions

It’s always interesting to me when people say they have a “passion” for something. To me, that means that person’s passion is more than just important to them. It means they force themselves to make time for it, it is an integral part of who they are, and it is more than just a hobby or interest.

I’m not talking about family or friends. This is something else. In anyone’s perfect world, your passion would be your profession. It’s not really work when you love what you do, right? I was passionate about being a Soldier for a very long time. More specifically, I was passionate about being an Infantryman, a Paratrooper, and a leader. It’s been three years since I retired and when I hung up my boots, that passion appropriately faded. I don’t look back on my service with less of a fondness, but that isn’t who I am anymore.

Those that know me well know I have one huge passion in my life; soccer. I joke that I am a “weird American” because I have been playing my entire life. I still play, even now, in an “old man league”. But, it’s more than just playing. I coached my daughter’s high school team. I never miss my son’s games. I watch hours and hours and hours of professional games on the weekends. I organize and manage my weekend team. I’ve started working on getting my coaching certifications. I’m a tactics nerd. When I play on the weekends, I normally drive an hour and a half one way just to get to the game. I love it. I make time for it. It is a passion for me.

Writing may not yet be a passion for me, but it’s getting there. I enjoy it and it comes easily. Small secret, Keep Moving, Keep Shooting was written without a plan or an outline and completely stream of consciousness. I used to refer to myself as a Soldier. I’ve always, always referred to myself as a soccer player. Maybe someday I’ll refer to myself as an author.

What about you? Who are you? What’s your passion? Just something to think about.