08 April, 2023

Heavenly Body

There was a joint team I used to have regular Skype sessions with, but they were too far in between. Some time after our joint challenge, where we actually pushed ourselves to the physical and mental limit, we went our separate ways. Still friends, but for safety concerns, we decided to stay within our realms or lanes. It was an endurance'thon that incorporated many of our physical readiness tests—a combination of branches: Coast Guard, Air Force, Marines, Navy, and Army. When I transitioned to the Space Force, they called attention to the deck; a Captain, now Major, announced for me on an operations floor. We were among the first in Florida and had to go through a selection process and a lengthy interview with my Air Force Element Commander. Our joint team often discussed leadership, feeling like a podcast, transcribed in case of dire events. We took risks to become more resilient, a common goal highlighted by leaders to adapt and overcome. One topic was using oneself as a stepping stone in career advancement; someone proposed we see ourselves as satellites or bodies for slingshot trajectories instead. Slingshot maneuvers are common in space, relying on factors like gravitational pull and speed, analogous to career advancement through collaboration. There's always some loss in gain, paths falling short or landing wrongly timed. Remembering references and collaborating with others helps reestablish direction when fuel is low. This concept extended virtually, navigating space simulations with ease. Considering opening a Discord for thematic discussions, possibly a stepping stone or reference point for direction. It may not be as straightforward as firing arrows, but one accurate shot can make a lasting impact, finding where you need to be and adjusting as needed. Have a good Friday and weekend, everyone.