<p>“I probably picked the wrong thread to post this in since you all are a bunch of military people who tend not to question the status quo, so I’ll leave it at that.”</p>
<p>benny,</p>
<p>I’m not part of a “bunch of military people”. I’m a mom with a corporate job and 3 kids. Part of my job includes evaluating individuals who may be ready for new roles within our company. I absolutely must avoid knee-jerk reactions to comments others make. It would be easy for me to think “benny is just young and made a silly comment about military people who do not question the status quo. Lots of people really believe the stereotype”. However, I don’t think you’d be on this board investigating service academies if you believed that. </p>
<p>So, let me say that the military people I have met since my daughter has started this journey have impressed me more than I thought I could be. The leadership experience they have - especially at an early time in their careers -cannot be duplicated in corporate America. The opportunities at service academies to observe both good and bad leadership styles/habits is unparalleled. Integrating the good into your own style is the real challenge. And this cannot happen unless they question the status quo. </p>
<p>Now, regarding the “holidays” issue, I certainly understand what is commonly called the “December Dilemma” better than you think as my extended family looks like an experimental interfaith council. I appreciate the passion about educating individuals who may not understand much outside their own faith/culture. I did that for years. Right now, I just choose to say “thank you” to any good wishes. I can use them all.</p>
<p>Please continue with your questions and passions. I only suggest that you be aware of knee-jerk reactions to comments others make - especially via forums like this where we do not have the advantage of a face-to-face discussion. (I apologize in advance if the tone of this post sounds at all like a scolding which is not my intention. I merely want to offer my comments and views.)</p>