They say everything happens for a reason. Is that what's happening to me? I keep getting more and more delayed in sending my papers in. Most of the things that delay me are beyond my control. Believe me, I wanted to go on my nineteenth birthday, but that didn't happen. And it probably won't for several more months. I still haven't sent my papers in. They've been done for a month, but for some reason I just haven't gotten to the point where the stake president can submit them. And now something else weighs on my mind constantly. I want to join the marines. Should I do it now, or wait until after my mission. If I join now, It could be as soon as two or three weeks until I'm down at basic training. Also, When I get done with basic and tech school, I'll then be able to go on my mission. That delay will be about seven more months. Of course I'd have to join the reserves to do that, but when I come back I could always switch to active duty. Pros: (1)The marines is the hardest and most challenging of all the branches of the military. It's those challenges that make you who you are and give you the self-confidence and dedication to do just about anything. (2)I would be able to earn the rest of the money I need for my mission and then some. (3)When I return, I won't have to worry about finding a job. (4)The benefits that the federal government provides are second to none. (5)The military is a great place to raise a family. My dad was in the Air Force for 12 years. I was Born on an Air Force base and raised on one. I cannot thank my dad enough for providing me with that. The stability and consistency that was existent in my childhood, not to mention the discipline, Is what's kept me out of any real trouble. I'm a good kid, I really am, and I can thank the military for that. Cons: When I sign that paper, I'm literally singing my life away for four years. And if I join before my mission, what happens if I have a change of heart during it? When I'm on my mission, it would be nice not to have to worry about having to go back to the marines when I get home. I just wish someone would tell me what to do. I'm not really fond of reality. It seems like the responsibilities of adulthood are heaped onto you all and once and you don't have any time to breathe. Bring it on.