So, I don’t dare compare my tough circumstances to what our men and women in uniform face, but I confess, life’s been a bit tough lately. I’ve been praying and considering what’s next and if I’m going to continue on. Discouragement has been a ready, willing friend to aid me in that conversation (isn’t it always?).

This morning, I headed for my quiet time and felt nudged to view this video my hubby had sent me a while ago. It’s Admiral William H. McRaven’s UT-Austin commencement address. Through the admiral’s words, God stirred in my heart determination to warrior on. I hope this will do the same for you.

Life Lessons numbers 10 and 4 spoke the loudest to me (they make more sense if you actually watch this 19-minute video). Which speaks most to you?

10 Life Lessons from a Navy SEAL

by Admiral William H. McRaven,

Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command
2014 University of Texas at Austin Commencement Speech

1. If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.

2. If you want to change the world, find someone to help you paddle.

3. If you want to change the world, measure a person by the size of their heart, not the size of their flippers.

4. If you want to change the world, get over being a sugar cookie and keep moving forward.

5. If you want to change the world, don’t be afraid of the circuses.

6. If you want to change the world, sometimes you have to slide down the obstacle head first.

7. If you want to change the world, don’t back down from the sharks.

8. If you want to change the world, you must be your very best in the darkest moment.

9. If you want to change the world, start singing when you’re up to your neck in mud.

10. If you want to change the world, don’t ever, ever ring the bell.