Reflecting on Reflection

Lt. David B. Thames
HEADQUARTERS BATTALION, 3RD MARINE DIVISION
CHAPLAIN'S CORNER

The phrase “Period of Reflection” has become a household term of late. While some folks no doubt expressed frustration over the restrictions placed on our day-to-day engagement with the local community, my own observation is that the vast majority accepted the state of affairs with grace and quiet resolve. Now that a new set of rules has replaced the more comprehensive limitations, life has begun to seem a bit more normal as normal as any overseas duty ever feels. At least I don’t have to worry about how to get a re-supply of those special trash bags, without which I rate a stern if incomprehensible — lecture from the Ishikawa sanitation engineer who appears at my house every three days.

Still, I think it would be unfortunate if we simply relegate the “Period of Reflection”
to the status of unpleasant memory, as if once endured, all bets are off. Part of the intent, and indeed the wisdom of such a period, after all, is to take a good look at ourselves, individually and collectively. Whatever the genesis of the phrase, the principle it expresses is that each of us must take a long and honest look in the mirror to make sure that what we see is in sync with what we claim about ourselves. Otherwise, we run the risk of holding our integrity cheap — for all the world to see.

The “Man in the Mirror” metaphor is perhaps a bit over-used. Nevertheless, it challenges us to extend the “Period of Reflection” beyond the statutes of commanding generals and into the daily discipline of being good people. It requires that we give pause in the face of our own reflection to consider that we are guests in this land and to ask “what can I do (or not do) today to be the kind of guest I would want in my home?” The visage staring back at me from the looking-glass wants to know “what kind of ambassador are you going to be today?” The familiar lines and creases pose the question “wherefore honor, whither courage and commitment today?”

The “Period of Reflection” must not be tossed into the bin of political posturing or the category of “one more bullet dodged.” Instead, it needs to be instituted as a standing order that each of us (and all of us) do the daily soul-searching required of those who aspire to the public trust, who accept the mantle of stewardship for an honorable reputation, and who dare to wear or live in association with the uniforms of our nation.

The beauty of a daily period of reflection is this as we begin to see ourselves the way we truly are — as God sees us — we are freed from false illusions, and empowered to bring what we see into alignment with our highest ideals and most noble goals. We raise the bar for ourselves and for each other.

Now take a good look - and then go do the right thing!

Thames is the chaplain for Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Marine Division.