So I took a turn in my life that I had to take. One I've had the need to do for a long time. I made a couple videos and proved to myself I am capable of making okay ones. But I've always felt a bit hollow in that pursuit. Mainly because I have not lived fully yet. I haven't experienced what life and the Earth have to offer. And if I never live myself... then whats the point? How could I ever convey life mysteries and messages if I don't even know them myself? If I haven't lived, what the hell am I? What kind of position does that put me in to be preaching and telling stories of others' struggle when I barely struggled myself?

One of the many things I want to do is visit the Caucasus region. I want to visit Pacific islands. I want to go to Mexico City, Guadalajara, Aguas Calientes. I want to experience different cultures, different places... If I stay in front of a computer for my youth, then I will not look back on my life fondly. I want to experience something different. I made a hard call thats going to no doubt upset my family. But if I do not make this call, it will be a deathbed regret.

I joined the United States Marine Corps. I have taken the ASVAB and the physical. I passed comfortably.This is the first step towards becoming the man I hope to be someday. I am scheduled to swear in next week. I will recieve my shipment date. May not be for a bit, but I will wait it out.

In regards to animation... this will be a true test to discover whether this art form is something I can see myself doing for a long time. When I get out and the art form remains something I want to pursue, I will resume this path with a vigorous and renewed sense of purpose. If I do... then I believe I will be unique in a sense. But it's not about uniqueness. Its mostly to develop my own heightened sense of identity and prove to myself that I can take what the world has to throw at me. And the USMC is the toughest branch of our armed forces. I genuinely hope at the end of my contract I will still want to animate.

I love animation and I love Newgrounds. I fully intend to revisit this website and watch all the wonderful creations the community offers for entertainment. You all keep creating and entertaining and bringing your visions of life to the screen. When I complete my service, I hope I may join you again and do the same.