day no. 14,999: keep alert. suit up. bulk up. stand.

"During times of peace, the most important task of any military is to prepare for war. Through its preparedness, a military provides deterrence against potential aggressors. As the nation’s expeditionary force-in-readiness, the Marine Corps must maintain itself for immediate employment in “any clime and place” and in any type of conflict. All peacetime activities should focus on achieving combat readiness. This implies a high level of training, flexibility in organization and equipment, professional leadership, and a cohesive doctrine."

The time to manufacture bullets is not when you are being shot at.

"The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war." -- Sun Tzu

Those who devote themselves to being in fighting trim will have to fight less and when they do, their fights will be shorter and more favorably decided.

Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.

The time for putting on the armor is today. Not waiting for the darts to fire. The time to stand is now. Not tottering around until determination and stability are required.

The deeply rooted tree endures the storm by going deep when skies are blue.

Keep alert.
Suit up.
Bulk up.
Stand.