by Sadie Flatt
The appreciation felt for the acts of kindness, generosity, or unexpected good fortune in life is gratitude. It occurs from the recognition of blessings that come our way, whether it be the actions of others, significant life events, or personal achievements. Genuine gratitude involves the mindfulness of gifts that are out of our control, which fosters and nurtures humility while strengthening our relationships with those around me. I have a better understanding of what gratitude means from my time in the Marine Corps. It helped open the door for me in forming a relationship with the Lord many years after my discharge from service.
My time in the Marines created a mindset focused on discipline, perseverance, and strength to help me navigate the unfamiliar requirements of a new military life. The experiences I faced shaped my character, but it took years for me to fully grasp the emotional and spiritual burdens I carried. It was only when I encountered Christ that I discovered true peace and healing.
Through my faith, I have been able to release the unseen weight I was bearing—whether from my time in service or the struggles of adjusting to civilian life. My relationship with Christ has instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose, one that is rooted in grace rather than personal
accomplishments.
I am extremely thankful for the men and women veterans who came before me. I recognize that their sacrifices laid the groundwork for my own time in service. These brave individuals faced numerous challenges I did not have to face, often without their acknowledgment, which paved the way for each new generation of service members. The legacy left behind continues to be a powerful reminder that military service simply transcends mere duty; it is the embodiment of the responsibility to uphold and pass on the values they cherished so much. Through this legacy, I gained the motivation to live a life of honor and integrity. It is a continued reminder that I am a part of something far greater than myself.
Serving our country was a choice. The choice I made gave me the opportunity to serve with the most amazing and courageous men and women. Together, we became part of a lifelong brotherhood and sisterhood that gives unconditional strength and support during both some of the best and worst moments in our lives. I learned invaluable lessons through these bonds about teamwork, resiliency, and sacrifice. The relationships that were created have left a lasting impression on me, and I will carry those lessons with me every day. Gratitude is what I feel for having the honor and privilege of service that is priceless.
Through my faith, I can see that military service reflects Christ’s example: to serve others selflessly and stand for something greater than oneself. I have embraced the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment which are now deeply intertwined with my walk with Christ. Every experience I had before and after my time in the Marine Corps to my current spiritual journey, I believe God has used to shape who I am today. For that, I am eternally grateful and will continue to strive to live a life worthy of the calling to service. With gratitude, I honor all who have served, past, present, and future. Blessings to all.
Sadie has been married to Deon for 21 years. They have 3 children; Xavier, Jaxsen, and Huxley. Sadie served in the United States Marine Corps for 4 years and discharged as a Corporal. Deon and Sadie met in Iwakuni, Japan while serving together. She is a nurse manager at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center in Minneapolis. In her spare time, she can be found cheering on her children at the baseball field or karate dojo, enjoying a movie with her husband or curled up with a good book.
2 thoughts on “Season of gratitude: insights from a Marine Corps veteran”
Sadie! Thank you so much for sharing these values you have come to cherish and stand by. And thank you for your humble and courageous service for our country. It means more than words can say.
You are very welcome and thank you for your kind words!