My Mentors and Motivators. by Mel Paras

My Mentors and Motivators , By Mel Paras..
 Long ago, before I joined the Navy , I was at the many family gatherings and I had a conversation with one of my mentors about joining the Military. I just graduated from Southwestern College , attended Sheriffs academy and waiting for any law enforcement agency to pick me up.. Well I was impressed with my relative because he started on a rough road.. Lacked education and got into some trouble.. Kind like me.. growing up.. I was a bit of mischief guy, not a total Bad Ass, but if it was fun and the authority thought it was in proper..I was in.. But of course we all have to out grow it. I mean I was no longer a teenager, I completed my college studies for the time and I was embarking on  law enforcement career , despite the strong advise from my dearly departed mama to try something else.. Why? maybe she knew something about my character or lack of one at the time.. But I was met with resistance even from close friends. I heard you are too strong willed , arrogant , and hot tempered and fearless,, Plus you love to fight.. I thought isn't that good traits to be a Marine , soldier Airman or Sailor.. I guess not. according to my family and friends.. 
  But I engaged in this discussion with my uncle , I was impressed with his candor and even concern that my attitude and demeanor would not fir in today's navy.. Well back in the 90's.. But I said I feel its something I need to do,, something that is inside me,,Like my father and all my brothers before me had done.. But I was also impressed with all his monetary belongings and lovely home.. I told him I want those things, not because I want to show off, its because in life that's how alot of people judge you ,, By your material wealth.. Its also gives you the hard working guy or girl that symbol that all your blood , sweat and tears was well worth it.. I mean I was moving apt to apt. job to job and not really happy? I mean I met my Dream Girl.. but my own career was at a stand still and because I was so young and full of energy I wanted to do things productive.. 
 Thus , My relatives provided me that opportunity to enlist the United States Navy.. and the rest is history.. I want to thank my Mentors , they have been a great inspiration and often times the fear factor .that is. I didn't want to disappoint them that I could do it. Because at times during Boot camp I was thinking of calling it quits.. But that's a another blog I will address later.. But for now ,, because they were honest , brutal and inspirational I took their accomplishments and their desires and use it to attain my own goals and aspirations. 
 Result.. I completed 20 years of honorable service , I'm still married to greatest lady ever! And of course I have raised 2 of the sweetest and considerate boys who will make me proud one day when they complete their studies and choose a lifelong partner and give me grand kids.,. Oh boy.. that's gonna be something.  
 My philosophy about life.. Be yourself , be active and never say you're too old.. Even at my advanced age I can still pop lock , box and exercise with the best of them,. Having young boys keeps me in shape , Because My ego doesn't want to know as an old , fat man.. I'm still doing what I love which is pop lock dancing , boxing , riding my mountain bike and of course driving my Dream Muscle car.. I feel reborn ,, and rejuvenated after 20 stressful years of Military service.. You think and act young your mind and body follows your actions.. Be positive!! Live life and don't be a sour , depressing , whiner.. I don't have the patience or time to deal with such party poopers!! 
THE SOURCE PRODUCTIONS @ 2012!!