Life is hard, but you can choose your attitude

Sign at entrance to US Army Ranger Schoo
27 May
2016

Life is hard, so make the best of it.  Simply put, you will have some great days, some good days, some average days, some bad days, and even some absolutely miserable ones.  One way to help keep your sanity is to approach every day with a positive mental attitude.   It may be the main thing that helps you make it through the tough days.  

Besides, you do not have a choice of what will happen to you on any given day.  Many people I know are delusional regarding how much control they think they have in their life. They hold onto everything tightly hoping that will help make things better. This closed hand approach to life may make you feel better, but it doesn’t really help. I recommend focusing instead on how you will react to events. You have complete control of your attitude.

Sometimes when I feel down I remember the US Army Ranger Creed that we recited every morning at Ranger School. It helps me remember who I am and what I can do, even when the odds are stacked against me. I will talk more about this creed and Ranger School later.

Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of the Rangers.

First stanza of the US Army Ranger creed
You can control your attitude.

I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.

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