Excellent advice. This son has a great attitude.
As a liberal "tree-hugger," I always thought military men were controlling jerks.
But as a night owl, he's right about the value of getting up early.
Your thoughts?
I've known a number of SOF (Special Operations Forces) guys in my life, and to a man they were the furthest thing from braggadocious. They're well aware of their abilities, and don't need to seek trouble. Most are wiry as opposed to musclebound ... picture the sculpted physique of a professional rock climber. They lead by example, not by barking commands, and are fully devoted to the mission and the team. Their training is much more than physically demanding, as it requires a psychological and emotional discipline that is either buried deeply within, or doesn't exist.
My dad was not a seal and he always taught me valuable common sense lessons: be punctual, treat others like you want to be treated (golden rule), always help others if you are in a position to help, eat anything you want but always in moderation because even the healthiest of foods in excess will harm you and, finally, if you do the above your body will respond positively.
You are fortunate to have had a father who taught you those lessons. My grandfather served the role you've described, and he focused on golden rule living. If only everyone lived by that philosophy.