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How did you calm your parents down?

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llub5

Registered User
Well, I just spoke with my parents about my interest in joining the Marines (PLC). They weren't bvery happy about it to say the least and are pretty much against it right now. Basically I'm going to do what I want because its my decision anyway, but I'd rather not give my mom a heart attack. I'm sure I'm not the only one with this problem. What did everyone else tell their parents? I'd especially like to hear from anybody that went through PLC. Thanks for the help.
 

thor44

Registered User
That is a good question. In my case my dad is fine with it and supports me in doing it. My mom, however is scared to death. She is certain that will get killed. My resonse to her is that I know that God has a plan for my life. If it is his will that I become an aviator then he will open the doors. If he does allow me to get in then he will protect me. If I should be killed then that was his will as well. Of course this would not work for those who do not believe God is in control of their lives. Just my opinion on the mater.

Live Pure,
Right Wrong,
Speak True,
Follow the King,
Else Wherefore Born?
 

jaerose

Registered User
I just got my parents drunk, then told them. Just kidding. Mine actually responded pretty well, although a little shocked that I went from a doctor wannabe to a military pilot wannabe. I just told them to chock it up to adrenaline.

JR
 
Uh yeah, I'm pretty much the same way as thor44. Dad couldn't care less. Mom is scared out of her wits and probably prays every night I would become something else. So I pretty much did the same thing he did. I dunthink it worked to alleviate fears, but it stopped further argument.
 

airgreg

low bypass axial-flow turbofan with AB driver
pilot
My parents, like many Americans, were fairly ignorant about a lot of military stuff. The only time the average citizen hears about naval aviation is when something crashes or someone gets shot at. Search the web, there's a lot of info on accident rates and safety policies.

If that doesn't work, tell them that you're going to jump from your 20th floor office cubicle if you don't get to do something REAL with your life. Worked for me...
 

jaerose

Registered User
Seriously, have you explained to your parents exactly what it is you want to do and why...ie your dream? For instance, Naval Aviation, Intel, or whatever it is you're entering in order to do. Also, explain to them the current situation of the economy and the job market...let them know that you won't have to worry about job security. Not to mention all of the possible education benefits for furthering yourself by attending grad school (Tuition assistance, GI Bill, Naval Post-Grad School etc.), which can keep you from being in debt for life.

You could also mention the travel and the military discipline/lifestyle if these are also valid reasons for your joining. I mean, really I think it's silly the way some people react with 'but why' when you tell them you joined the military...don't they know that there's more to life than money. Yes, it's nice and you're probably not going to get rich, but sometimes people like to do something honorable and be a part of something much greater than themselves.

JR
 

llub5

Registered User
I might have to try a few of these methods. I'll start with getting them drunk:) I told them that this is something I have wanted to do for a long time and I would kick myself if I didn't go through with it. I can't think of a more fulfilling job. I also told them how great my resume will look after my Marine career. Basically I've been blunt and told them I was going to do it anyway, but I wanted to talk to them about it. My dad will get over it. I think he's just upset because my Mom told him to be, but my mom is convinced I'll die. I'd rather not have her go insane worrying about me.
 

jaerose

Registered User
You could also tell them that someone has to protect our great country and that you want to do your part to make sure they, and the rest of America, are now and will continue to be safe. Ask them if they can think of a more qualified person for the job. If all else fails, tell your mom that eventually everyone dies and that at least you'd be doing something you love, for a country and family that you love and that you would do so with honor and integrity. That might induce a heart attack, but at least then she'll have to respect you and your choice. That's really all you can ask for anyways...respect, because most people will not understand the sacrifice you are willing to make for the greater good. Most people are too selfish to see past the 'what's in it for me' phase. Good luck.

JR
 

BRM21o

New Member
Tell them it's safer to be fighting for you country in Iraq than it is driving down the highway going to your 8-5 desk job. Both are dangerous, one will make you happy.
 

lonelydriver

Registered User
I just simply called my parents one day from school that i want to join the marine. Actaully my dad is very supportive and motivated me to join the corp "he think is cool to have a miliary son". While my mom was kind of resisted me to join, then i explain to her the chance of me getting kill during war time is very very slim, just look at the war with Iraq, there's over 300,000 soldiers and there's less than 200 U.S soldiers get killed, so i have to be very very lucky to be one of the victims. Evenually she accepted and said nothing more. PERSISTANCE WORK!!!
 

llub5

Registered User
Originally posted by BRM21o
Tell them it's safer to be fighting for you country in Iraq than it is driving down the highway going to your 8-5 desk job. Both are dangerous, one will make you happy.

I tried that one too. I need to find some stats that say more engineers die every year at work than military pilots. That will switch her over.
 

DBLang

PLC Candidate
My dad supports it. My mom completely freaked out and begged me to join the airforce instead when I told her I was considering the USMC. She got over it after a while though.
 

Duff

Registered User
I told my parents that I was joining and it was a really good reaction. My dad spent 27 years in the Corps, so he was happy as hell, and my mom seemed to be pretty happy. I find it funny though, when the Marines went to Afghanastan, I was at a family reunion and said something to the effect of I wish I could be there, and my sisters jumped up and said no you don't blah blah blah. My mom looked at me and said, "You just like your father, you turn will come, be patiet."
 

jaerose

Registered User
Hey, at least when you're a military pilot you can fire back at those who are endangering you. If you try that on your commute to the office you'll be spending time in a cell with a guy named 'Sally.' =)

JR
 
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