Ground Truths

 Today I want to comment on what I call "Ground Truths."

In 26 years of Army service, I learned a few life principles which I call “Ground Truths.” These are practices that I have observed to work well in my own life and the lives of others. I offer them up freely and you are free to apply them as the Lord leads!

They include:

Mission First, People Always!

Lean forward in your foxhole (that means “take the initiative” for you civilian personnel); if you aren’t going the extra mile you aren’t really trying.

There is no right way to do the wrong thing; always do what is right even when no one is looking.

There is no such thing as a good surprise in the Army, and bad news does not get better with age.

More communication is better than less, so stay in touch!

Showing up is 90% of life; if you’re on time, you’re late!

Never let your ego write a check your competence can’t cash.

Always have a plan; you can always call an audible if you need to.

Perception is reality. You are only as good as your last time at bat.

You can only fall on your sword once; make sure it is worth it.

Tell the truth in love. It in an inherent part of your job!

You don’t have to train to be miserable. Miserable comes naturally.

It is easier to act yourself into feeling better than it is to feel yourself into acting better. 

In terms of leaders, today’s peacock is tomorrow’s feather duster.

Know your lane but keep a wide aperture.

Chaplains are missionaries to a warrior tribe. They have to speak the tribe’s language to be effective in their mission.

Put effort and planning into your invocations at ceremonies. This might be the only ministry some of your Soldiers ever get.

“Big boy rules” mean that you are willing to live with consequences of either success or failure.

Count Von Zinzendorf “Preach the Gospel, die, and be forgotten.”

Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss): “Do not cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”

If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone . . . But, if you have to fight, fight like you are the third monkey on the ramp to Noah’s Ark, and brother, it is starting to rain!

You can never go wrong loving Soldiers and their families.

Every blessing,

Dr. Otis Corbitt