Purpose

My thoughts for the day.
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Unfortunately, I'm reminded that today was going to be the start of our first VARP event in Tasmania. While a week ago it seemed like one of the hardest decisions I've had to make in a while, today it looks like postponing the training was the right decision. Looking at Europe and other countries further down the virus time-line, the current crises in Australia will undeniably get worse before the country recovers.

Several times over the last week I have seen similarities in our home communities that I experienced while serving in war zones. Environmental kaos, uncertainty of the future, decision making with limited information and threats to your health and safety are just a few. Like veterans returning from threatening and uncertain environments, for you there can be adverse consequences for not only your physical health but your mental health as well. As a community, I feel it is important to thank people like our nurses and doctors who are on the front lines fighting this threat for us, as well as our police and other essential services that will keep us alive through this difficult time. Their exposure to risk is the highest.
My small bit of advice. Look after yourself both physically and mentally. Do your part to fight our common enemy, Covid-19 or the Coronavirus. Even if you do not work in an essential service you can help in the fight by listening to and doing as our community leaders ask. Physical separation to slow the spread and thinking of the community before ourselves. Also while we put our personal lives on hold and work towards our common good, plan for your future. Just like a soldier does during deployment, think about what you are going to do after this operation is over. While you may not be able to put a timeline on your future goals you can start planning them. As many Aussie Digger’s over the years have thought about that first beer at the local pub after getting home, you to can plan. Research that next family camping adventure, tinker on the boat in the back yard and get it ready for the next big trip, or even plan that experience to a foreign culture. Not knowing when you will be able to action your plans does not mean they won’t happen. Like exercise, good natural food and sleep helps you stay physically healthy; dedicating time to your passion, planning for the future and understanding your purpose will assist you in staying mentally strong.

I personally look forward to climbing my next mountain in Tasmania with a potential future adventurer. Showing them the best place on the planet and opening their eyes to their potential is what I will be thinking about.
Mark