decisions ( for yesterday)

Being nineteen, I am at a pivotal time in my life. It is an ephermal period where I must keep my options open and be careful not to limit myself from anything that I may even remotely aspire to try. There are many things that I have lately been interested in, such as joining the National Guard and my career once I graduate from college. However, of the two (the two main ones) The Guard I feel is the interest that has the most urgency to it.
Since I was a kid, I have always respected men/women in the military, and have regarded it as one of the most noble, courageous things a person can do with their life. Since that time, I have also had an urge to be apart of that nobility and valor. However, in high school I began questioning my patriotism, which in effect lowered, or destroyed any interest I had of joining a branch of the military for a career. But it wasn’t until recently, when certain events caused my patriotism to come back, and I began to regret not choosing to enter a field of the military after highschool. Considering that I am still young enough to join, I feel right now is the time, or perfect kairos (to relate to ancient rhetoric ) to make that decision. However, there are a few things that I need weigh in making it.
Con number one: obviously the threat of being shipped over seas. I’m not sure if I would enjoy being away from home for a year. It would mean sacrificing a year of school, spending time with my family, friends, girlfriends, and music.
Pro number one: it would round me out as a man. The guard would teach me invaluable life lessons about responsibility, discipline, and respect, that right now I feel I am falling short in.
Con number two: lack of flexibility. I’m not sure how flexible the guard is with school, and other family matters, and if something came up, I do not want to have to experience a lot of grief to coordinate things in my favor.
Pro number two: the benefits of being in the military. I would receive payment for my schooling, and would receive other types of benefits too. The military could also be a nice way to get my retirement started
Con number three: I would have to commit a minimum of eight years of my life the military. If I do not life the military, or if a major war breaks out, there is a good possibility that I could be working at a miserable, dangerous career.
There is obviously a lot to take into account when making this decision, and lately I have been thinking about it almost every day. Let’s just hope I make the right one!