Mother is begging me not to go to the army...?

Question

Please don't agree with her, i am going either way... I just need tips to help me calm her down or something.. thanks

Answer 1

First and foremost, be firm in your decision, but don't be rude to your mother. It's unbecoming of a military member and won't help your situation.

I know where you come from, my mom didn't want me to join the air force. She STILL would prefer I get out at the end of this tour, even though she works for the air force as a civilian.

The best thing you can do is this:
first, point out that you are signing up for a job that entails risk. There's no denying it, you're putting your life out to the service of your nation. But point out that ALL of life involves risk. you could get hit by a bus tomorrow crossing the road while doing no more for your country than a common street dog. Life is worth living, not worth running from just to add minutes to an already short time.

Second, point out the benefits and experience. Education, travel, overseas assignments, responsibility, discipline, job experience, a roof over your head and three square meals (that YOU work for, rather than take off someone else).

Third, ask her for her support. She may never agree with you, and you could even tell her you understand that. But try to kindly make her realize that your decision is inevitable and her support will mean that if you ever do end up deployed that you won't have to worry as much about home and can concentrate on the job at hand. Reassure her that though there is some risk, you'll do everything in your power to mitigate that and come home safe and sound.

I look forward to working with you.

EDIT: don't bother reading "Element's" answers, it's obvious from a few of them that he's an anti-military ignoramous.

Answer 2

I just finished my 4 year enlistment with the U.S Marine Corps and it was the best 4 years of my life. If you are about to enlist you are obviously 18 years old and by that right a legal adult. She is your mother and does deserve for you to listen to her opinion, but in the end it is your decision. Just keep in mind, once you sign the dotted line and join the Army, your responsibility no longer lies with pleasing your parents it is being a soldier in the United States Army. I disagree with some of the other people that answered before me who say that you should tell her about the college money or education. The purpose of the Army isnt to provide you with an education, its to fight and win wars which means carrying the weight of defending this nations freedom on your shoulders. This job is dangerous and men die in combat, but there always has to be the few who stand up and hold the line of freedom. I applaud your decision and wish you the best of luck .

Answer 3

Your mother is thinking from the heart. If this is what you want and feel it will better assist you in your future plans then your mother will agree to it in her mind. But in her heart she cannot stand the pain of the thought of you going to wars like in Iraq. The thought of dead or major injuries is scaring her and clouding her emotions. There are many other opportunities out there besides the Army. What are the reasons why you want to go in? College plan by the military? Taking the easy way out? If you were to wait until Bush leaves office then maybe she will relax and allow you. Part of her worries is maybe because Bush has no regard for American soldier lifes and you might be sent to some danger zones. Don't forget that Bush has politicize American soldiers lifes in the country inorder to get more money and preach more cheap demagogue.

Answer 4

What are your reasons behind joining the army? Do you want to fight for your country? Do you want to use it for college money? Do you want to use it to start building a career? You don't provide many details, these are important questions and concerns because realize, you may be asked to put your life on the line for your country and you should make sure the plan you craft for your life accounts for this. You need to answer these questions for yourself and then tell her. Most people joining the army are quite young, around 18. I'd imagine you are too if you are consulting with your mother about it, but she's just looking out for your best interest and making sure you are making a good choice.

I wanted to join the army too, but my parents disapproved so much I pulled the plug on that plan. In retrospect, I am much better at computer programming and I am convinced now that this is where I belong.

Answer 5

I am a Veteran who served under Reagan in the Army. I would not join under Bush. But since you are, the great things the army did for me were:
- Taught me responsibility and helped me grow up
- I saw Europe while living there (much nicer than Iraq)
- Got the GI Bill and went to college afterwards
- Used a VA Loan to buy our first condo
- Still have VA life insurance

Join the Air Force instead.

Answer 6

I say go for it brother. The Army has been nothing but good for me the past 5 years and I just re-enlisted for another 6. Since ive been in ive been to Japan, Alaska, Thailand, and all over the Continental US. I also did a 16 month tour in Iraq and saw how much the Army contributes to stoping terrorism.

The proudest day of my parents for me was june 6 2002 when I enlisted. There second proudest day was 21 August 2007 when my little brother swore in as well. My mother served her father served and my kids will serve if they ask me if they should.

Answer 7

Generally I don't tell people my personal issues because it's none of their damn business, but my father is doing the same thing, though in a far more subtle manner.

In the end, if you're not just throwing your life to the winds and seeing what happens, and if you're serious about this step... then there's nothing she can say that will change your mind. It is your life after all... but try to understand where she's coming from.

Answer 8

As a mom, I would suggest you take all the information on your MOS and sit down, talk to her and explain in as much detail as you can what your job is going to be. Explain the benefits you will receive in the military - pay, medical, school benefits, etc..

Offer to have your recruiter come talk to her. Let her know you love her and understand that she is scared for you, but you feel this is the right direction for your life right now.

I'm sure your mom would rather have you go to college, but if it is not the right time for you to continue in school, ask her where you will be in 4 years. Don't back down in what you feel is right for you. You don't want to regret not doing this later in life. Only you can decide what is right for you.

When she attends your military graduation, she will be so proud of you and all this will be behind you.

Good luck in your future.

Answer 9

there is not any thank you to calm her down. i won't be able to think of of any parent that would not be disturbing approximately their baby if he or she had to pass into the militia, surprisingly at present. It took DH's mom approximately 7 to 10 years to quiet down and finally settle for that he had made his decision to connect the army. in actuality, sometimes i think of even after 15+ years she's nevertheless no longer entirely happy approximately it. look, in case you have talked to adequate human beings (associates, kin, recruiter) to sense that the army could be a solid place which you would be able to realize your objectives in existence then do no longer enable your mom sway you. She has the main suitable to be scared and not something you're able to do will exchange that...different than coming residing house risk-free. till that factor she could be slightly freaked. If that's the main suitable decision for you, you're able to desire to do it and merely shelter that calm sureness which you're doing what you could desire to.

Answer 10

you join the U.S army to give freedom to others and protect super empowered angry man like Osama. If you're mother is too worried you could calm her down by saying that you care for country that gives freedom to others that are unable to do because of dictators that are buying the military by oil money.
If still doesn't work join the U.S air force. the chance of injury is low. If you want to work and be in the army join The U.S National Guard.