Afghanistan 2008. Sergeant Leroy Petry was leading his team of seven Rangers on a raid to capture a high-value target when he encountered an opposition of about 40 Taliban. Almost immediately after dropping from the helicopter they came under heavy fire. Sweeping through building after building he found himself in the crosshairs of an enemy bullet that ripped through both of his legs. After working his way over to another wounded soldier, he led them over to a chicken coup for cover, called in his position, and was joined by a third for help.
While assessing the situation, an enemy grenade landed by the three men. Petry, despite being wounded, grabbed the grenade and threw it as hard as he could. It exploded just as it was leaving his grip, blowing off his hand and demolishing his forearm. Putting a tourniquet on his arm to stop the bleeding, he stayed in the fight, directing his men until the confrontation was over. His actions saved lives and years later was rewarded with the Medal of Honor.
"Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important." Galatians 6:2-3
One person unselfishly taking action in the face of a desperate situation can change everything. You are under fire from all sides, injured, in pain, and concerned. It's time to act. Action is the only thing that ever improves a situation. People depend on you. I read recently this quote that really stuck with me: "Throw up in your boots, crap in your pants but never let the people around you down".
One of the most impressive things about Sergeant Petry's story is that after recuperating from his injuries, he re-enlisted. That's sharing in each other's burdens and honoring his call to service, despite circumstances. That's the kind of action that makes things happen.
Even if you are feeling a little shot up right now, so are others around you. You can sit still and hope things don't blow up, or you can act, grab the grenade, toss it out of the way, and keep fighting. Yes, it could be uncomfortable and you could fail, but what’s the alternative? Not sure where to start? Look around you, find the closest person that needs help, and start there. The fastest way to victory is through helping others and taking action. Let’s toss a few grenades.