Living out your purpose Published Sept. 11, 2017 By Senior Master Sgt. Parnel Scalambrino 60th Air Mobility Wing Dental Squadron TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Early and often, I challenge each person, that I have the distinct honor to influence, with this very thought, “What is your purpose?” This may seem like a deep theological question, but is one that we must challenge ourselves with. Finding purpose can be a lifelong expedition. Remarkably, some people know their purpose at an early age and others have yet to consider the question – and that’s ok. Let me encourage you. For a moment, reflect on your current passions, aspirations and what you would like your legacy to be. These reflections can be used to determine your purpose and the course in which to set sail. An analogy for your consideration: a sail boat is the platform, the waves and wind are the method and the voyage destination is the purpose. We can look at the Air Force as a platform. We share a strong and common bond to support and defend the constitution of the United States, protect our nation and effectively achieve the ultimate goal of the Profession of Arms – War Fighting. This is the platform. We can recognize our gifts, talents, responsibilities, position and rank as the methods. These methods are the opportunities we have to use our individual ability, leadership skill, influence and motivation to ultimately benefit others. We share a unique opportunity to guide, mentor and direct the future of our Air Force. These are the methods. The voyage, destination or purpose takes careful navigation and planning. This journey can begin with the Air Force Comprehensive Airman Fitness model. An inside look at my journey. The first pillar, social: I strive to love my wife, kids, family and friends to the utmost of my ability. Becoming a remarkable spouse, parent and friend is always at the forefront of my thoughts and actions. The second pillar, mental: I strive for a life of continuous learning by reading, taking classes and using the resources afforded to me for personal and professional growth. Studying the Bible and daily devotions give me strength, peace and hope. The third pillar, physical: I strive for a life of staying in great physical shape. Physical health is a lifelong investment determined by the effort I put in to eat, sleep and exercise in a healthy manner. I lift weights and run long distances as often as I can. The fourth pillar, spiritual: I strive to honor and glorify the Savior Who gave His life for me. I believe that I was placed on this earth by design, at this specific time and place to glorify God. I believe that we have a higher calling. I believe that what we do here, in this life, will leave a lasting legacy. I want my life to be marked by grace and compassion. Within this legacy, my Airmen won’t necessarily remember the mission or the metrics, the production or the priorities, but they will remember how I led, treated and cared for them. This is my voyage destination. John Maxwell once stated that, “Success is knowing your purpose in life, growing to reach your maximum potential, and sowing seeds that benefit others”. The challenge, do you know your purpose? Are you benefitting others? Are you leaving a lasting legacy? When you are living out your purpose, your position doesn’t matter. Don’t tell yourself… I’m just a staff sergeant or I’m only a captain. I’ve seen an airman first class with more influence than a colonel, and a lieutenant with more influence than a chief master sergeant. Your purpose, worth and value is not defined solely by a title, position or the rank worn on a collar or sleeve. You can know your purpose, benefit others and leave a lasting legacy no matter where you are in life. The Airman’s creed states “a tradition of honor and a legacy of valor”. This legacy of valor is defined as courage and strength in battle, courage in stressful and hard times and the courage to lead others to success. Don’t wait to find this courage. Lead. Set the example. Motivate and inspire others to find their purpose and reach their full potential! Don’t waste this one precious life you have been given. Make it count. Know your purpose and live out your purpose!