My name is August and I am somebody who likes quietness, tranquility, and gardening. I am a Buddhist Chaplain and a Navy Vet. I always wanted to have a meaningful job. I went to Grad School to become a College Professor and worked in China as a teacher for 10 years. When I came back to the US, I joined the Navy as a medic. But it became apparent that a lot of people who came to me needed much more than medicine could ever offer. Don’t get me wrong I got true meaning out of being a medic. But we tend to romanticize the entire process of joining the military. When those kids get into boot camp and go to war, it isn’t quite what they envisaged. I joined the Navy when I was 32 years old. When most guys are half way through their career. I was looking for a greater purpose. I guess at 32 you see the world differently and are searching for something bigger.
Misconceptions about work? People treat work as their identity. Without doubt, there is value and acknowledgement that comes from work. It makes people feel special and allows them to set themselves apart. But the connection seems rather hollow. There is so much more to life than that.
Honestly, I wish I’d known what I know now 20 years ago. It took me years to see that joining the Navy as a Buddhist Chaplain is where I’d like to be. If I’d jumped straight in, I don’t think I’d have pulled through or see the value of my work. With the help of Buddha and his teachings I can help people understand themselves and their feelings. It doesn’t have to be a religious experience, it can be a spiritual one. Buddhism allows for that.
This brings me to say that regardless of your age – I’m currently 40 - you can do something better. You can change the course of your life. I see so many people who get stuck in something they hate and say I’m too old for change. You’re never too old for change. I don’t get disillusioned anymore as I did when I was younger. Chaplaincy is hard, and it has its ups and downs, but it’s meaningful and wholesome.
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