Failure is not inevitable and success is not guaranteed. But if we don't try, we certainly will not succeed. - Larry O. Spencer

Service in the military is a way of life. Every day, the people you work with and for all have a common bond: we took a solemn oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. At its core, we swore to give our lives if necessary to defend the country. There is no higher calling.

I know people from all walks of life who were born into less-than-ideal situations but don't want to put in the work. Rather, they blame "the system," and they blame others for their status in life. Trust me, I know the professional playing field is not level, and every American should recognize that fact and work to correct the imbalance. But in my view, the best way to make things better is to work your way into a position of authority so you can assure fairness within your sphere of influence. My gruff grandfather once told me, "Life is not fair; get over it." Coleman Cox said, "I am a great believer in luck. The harder I work, the more of it I seem to have." I think both quotes are sound advice.

We live in an amazing country. America really is the greatest country on earth. Whether we are born to affluent parents who can provide every advantage in education and resources or reared in an inner-city or rural area with poor living conditions and substandard schools, in America, either can achieve their dreams of prosperity and success. That doesn't mean there will not be obstacles to overcome, but with persistence, hard work, and determination, in America we can in fact achieve anything.