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Chappie's Corner, 2406 Chaffee Road, El Paso, TX (2026)

09/11/2026

Word of the Week: Before and After

Today marks 25 years since September 11, 2001.

For some of you, that sentence immediately brings back a place, a person, a television screen, or a feeling. You remember where you were. You remember who you called. You remember watching the towers fall and wondering what would happen next. For others, September 11 is only history. You weren't alive yet. You learned about it in school. You saw the pictures and heard the stories, but you don't remember the day itself. And yet, whether you remember September 11 or not, I think most of us understand something about what happened that day.

There are moments in our lives that divide everything into before and after. For our nation, 9/11 was one of those moments. It shaped a generation. It influenced thousands of decisions to serve. Many of the leaders we work alongside today made the decision to raise their hand because of what they saw happen to our country.

But national crucibles aren't the only ones that shape us. We all have them. A death. A divorce. A diagnosis. A failure. A deployment. A loss. An accident. A relationship that ended. A moment when the world we thought we understood suddenly changed. Some of those moments leave scars. But scars aren't always evidence that we were destroyed. Sometimes they're evidence that something survived.

September is Su***de Prevention Month, and part of that conversation is recognizing that trauma can change us without having to define us. Research on post-traumatic growth reminds us that people can experience profound positive change after adversity. Not because the trauma was good. Not because the pain was necessary. But because human beings can sometimes find new strength, deeper relationships, greater appreciation for life, and a clearer sense of what matters because of what they've survived.

That's where I think we have three things to do:
-Remember. Don't forget what happened. Don't forget the people who were lost. Don't forget the lessons.
-Reflect. Ask what the difficult moments in your own life have changed in you. What did they reveal? What did they strengthen? What matters more to you now because of what you've experienced?
-Redirect. Don't allow the worst thing that happened to you to become the final word about your life.

You can't always choose what happens to you.
But you can, over time, choose what you do with what happened. So as we remember September 11, and as we think about the crucible moments in our own lives, here's the question I want to leave with you:

What beauty, strength, or purpose has grown in you because of something you once thought would only break you?

Remember. Reflect. Redirect. And if you find you need a listening ear, I’m here. —Chappie

09/07/2026

WORD of the day: Purpose

Today is Labor Day—a day when we recognize work. The things we build, the things we accomplish, and the contributions we make.
It also happens to be my 35th birthday. And turning 35 has had me thinking about something bigger than work: time.

There's a verse in Psalm 90 that says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” Thirty-five is a Biblical milestone- ½ a lifetime. Numbering my days has me reflecting on how I choose to spend them.

We're all busy. We work. We train. We lead. We take care of responsibilities. We pursue goals. But being busy isn't necessarily the same thing as living with purpose.

Here's the question I've been asking myself: Is what I'm spending my life on worth the life I'm spending?

Someday, the things we accomplish won't be the things that matter most. People will remember how we treated them. Our families will remember whether we were present. Our peers will remember whether we made them better or worse.

So, here's our challenge today:
Take a few minutes and think about what you want your life to mean, not just what you want to accomplish. Then identify one thing you can do today that moves you in that direction.

Labor Day reminds us that our work is valuable. But let's not get so lost in our work that we forget about the life it is costing.

07/21/2026

Jewish Word of the Week

The Tactical Word: Parshat Devarim

As the nation stands on the threshold of a major strategic transition, preparing to cross the Jordan River, the book of Deuteronomy opens with Parshat Devarim. Here, Moses begins a series of final briefings to the formation. Rather than introducing new tactical manual instructions, he conducts a comprehensive, strategic review of their organizational history, explicitly revisiting past tactical failures—such as the breakdown in discipline during the initial reconnaissance mission forty years prior. The great commentator Nachmanides (Ramban) highlights that Moses was not interested in assigning historical blame; rather, his intent was to ensure that the new generation of leaders fully understood the structural friction points of the past so they would not repeat them on the next objective.

This approach underscores the vital military concept of institutional self-assessment. A mature leader uses historical data and honest after-action reviews not as a weapon to punish mistakes, but as a diagnostic tool to fortify the unit's current readiness. Moses demonstrates that true professional development requires the moral courage to look squarely at past administrative and operational missteps, extract the hard lessons, and apply them directly to upcoming mission planning. When a section ignores its historical vulnerabilities, it guarantees that future operations will face the exact same internal friction.

Take time this week to review the operational trends within your team. Identify a recent friction point or procedural breakdown from a past project, and explicitly discuss it with your junior leaders. Turning past vulnerabilities into current training points is the most effective way to ensure your section is structurally sound and fully prepared for the next mission.

All the best,
Scott I. Klein, Ed.D.
Chaplain (CPT) / Rabbi
USAJFKSWCS
Fort Bragg, NC

07/21/2026

Buddhist Teaching of the Week

The Peace that Comes from Receiving the Dharma

“This chapter tells the story of King Wonderful Adornment, who initially does not follow the Buddha's teaching. His wife, Pure Virtue, and their two sons practice the Dharma with patience, wisdom, and compassion. Rather than forcing the king to change, they influence him through their own conduct and sincere example. Over time, the king opens his heart, receives the teaching, and experiences a profound transformation.”

- Adapted from Lotus Sutra, Chapter 27

Reflection:

This teaching reminds us that lasting change rarely happens because someone tells us what to do. More often, it grows from the example of people whose lives reflect kindness, integrity, and wisdom. For those exploring Buddhist teachings, this chapter encourages patience when supporting others. We cannot force another person to grow or to see life differently. What we can do is live in a way that reflects the values we hope to share. Our actions often speak more clearly than our words. By embodying compassion and understanding, we create conditions that may inspire transformation in others over time.

Meditation:

Sit comfortably and bring awareness to your breath. Allow your body to become still.

Bring to mind someone whose actions have positively influenced your life. Notice the qualities they embodied rather than the advice they gave.

Now reflect gently: “What qualities do I hope others experience through me?”

There is no need to judge yourself. Simply observe.

With each inhale, cultivate patience and compassion. With each exhale, release the need to control or persuade.

Rest quietly with the intention to let your daily actions reflect your deepest values, trusting that sincere example can quietly touch the lives of others.

Very Respectfully,
DUNG V. NGUYEN, DMin., BCC
Chaplain (Major), USA
Certified Educator Candidate
Joint Base San Antonio, TX
Cell: (626) 236-3445
NIPR: [email protected]

07/21/2026

Islamic Word of Encouragement

Bismillah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful Welcome back to another Chap C’s heart and soul weekly reflections, this week topic is “Knowing Yourself Through the Light of Allah.”

Alḥamdulillāh, Beloved brothers and sisters, one of the greatest crises of our time is not merely a lack of wealth, influence, or opportunity. It is a lack of self-knowledge. Many people spend their entire lives learning about the world but never take the time to understand the soul that Allah has entrusted to them.

Allah says in the Qur'an: "And on the earth are signs for those of sure faith, and also within yourselves. Will you not then, see?" (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:20–21)

Allah directs our attention inward. Self-reflection is not selfishness it is an act of worship when it brings us closer to our Creator. When we know ourselves, we recognize our strengths without arrogance, our weaknesses without despair, and our purpose without confusion.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "The intelligent person is the one who calls himself to account and works for what comes after death." This is the heart of spiritual maturity. Before we judge others, we must examine ourselves. Before we seek to change the world, we must allow Allah to transform our own hearts.

Many people are exhausted because they are trying to become someone Allah never intended them to be. They chase the approval of people instead of the pleasure of Allah. But true peace begins when we stop comparing ourselves to others and start striving to become the best version of ourselves in obedience to Him.

When you know yourself through the guidance of Allah, you begin to appreciate the blessings He has placed within you. You discover that your worth is not determined by your rank, your title, your income, or the opinions of others. Your true value comes from being a servant of Allah, honored by the One who created you.

Allah reminds us: "We have certainly honored the children of Adam." (Surah Al-Isra 17:70)

This honor is a gift from Allah. It calls us to live with integrity, humility, compassion, and purpose. Loving yourself in Islam does not mean becoming self-centered. It means recognizing that Allah created you with wisdom, entrusted you with responsibilities, and called you to excellence (ihsan). Gratitude for Allah's creation includes gratitude for the life He has given you.

As we leave for this week, let us ask ourselves: Who am I when no one is watching? Am I growing closer to Allah each day? Am I becoming the person He created me to be?

May Allah grant us hearts that are honest in self-reflection, souls that are at peace through His remembrance, and lives that reflect faith, sincerity, and excellence. May He guide us to know ourselves through His guidance, so that we may know Him more deeply and serve Him more faithfully.

Āmīn.

Asnage CASTELLY, BCC

Chaplain (CPT), USA

Chaplain Clinician

Womack Army Medical Center

2817 Rock Merritt Avenue

Fort Bragg, North Carolina 28310

Office: 910-907-7587

Cell phone: 413-231-0302 [email protected]

“There’s No U-Haul Following You To The Grave.”

07/21/2026

Good Morning Team! It’s been a little while. Been a little busy on mission. I pray all is well. Now on to this weeks CHRISTIAN WORD of the Week: The Delightful Law

“For I delight in the law of God after the inward man.” (Romans 7:22)

To many people, the law of God is harsh and cruel, consisting of an unreasonable list of “thou shalt nots.” But Scripture teaches that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good” (Romans 7:12). The “old man”—that is, the natural man—“is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts” (Ephesians 4:22). Therefore, it is written, “Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them” (Galatians 3:10).

No natural man could ever truthfully say, “I delight in the law of God,” and in our modern world it is even probable that most people have broken at least most of God’s Ten Commandments and often delight in doing so. But the “old man” becomes a “new man” when he accepts Christ as his Savior, for “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made [the] curse for us” (Galatians 3:13). Thus, the “inward man” can thenceforth “delight in the law of God,” as our text says: not to earn salvation (which we could never do) but because we love to live for Him who died for us.

God’s law (and we can understand this now to include even the entire Word of God) indeed becomes our delight. We can say with the psalmist, “Thy law is my delight” (Psalm 119:77). Everyone redeemed of the Lord should now find that “his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night” (Psalm 1:2).

The old covenant said, in effect, we must keep the law to live. But now, “this is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them” (Hebrews 10:16). No longer are the commandments written “in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart” (2 Corinthians 3:3), and we delight in them. HMM

See ICR’s Days of Praise.

06/03/2026

Buddhist Teaching of the Week

Entrustment: Carrying the Dharma Forward
“The Buddha entrusts the responsibility of preserving, practicing, and sharing the Dharma to the Bodhisattvas. Rather than keeping the teaching for himself, he places confidence in others to carry it forward for the benefit of future generations.”
- Lotus Sutra, Chapter 22

Reflection:
The chapter emphasizes that the Dharma continues through those who embody it in their daily lives. Entrustment is not merely the transfer of information; it is the passing on of responsibility, compassion, and commitment. The Buddha’s trust in the Bodhisattvas reflects his confidence in their ability to live the teaching and share it in ways that meet the needs of others.
For those exploring Buddhist teachings, entrustment is not limited to religious practice. It can be seen in everyday acts of caring, teaching, mentoring, and service. We all inherit wisdom, experiences, and opportunities from those who came before us. The question is how we choose to use them. This chapter reminds us that meaningful teachings remain alive when they are practiced and shared. By living with integrity, compassion, and responsibility, we become part of a larger chain of support that benefits future generations.

Meditation:
Sit comfortably and bring awareness to your breath. Allow your body to relax and settle into the present moment.
As you breathe, reflect on the people who have guided, taught, or supported you throughout your life. Notice the qualities they shared with you—kindness, wisdom, patience, or encouragement.
Now gently ask yourself: “What have I received that is worth carrying forward?”
Rest with the question without seeking an immediate answer.
With each inhale, receive the support you have been given. With each exhale, offer gratitude. Remain present with your breath, reflecting on how your actions may benefit others, both now and in the future.

Very Respectfully,

DUNG V. NGUYEN, DMin., BCC
Chaplain (Major), USA
Certified Educator Candidate
Joint Base San Antonio, TX
Cell: (626) 236-3445
NIPR: [email protected]

06/03/2026

Islamic Word of the Week

Bismillah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful

Welcome back to another Chap C’s heart and soul weekly reflections and this week about “Rooted Through Every Season.”

My dear brothers and sisters, one truth of life is that not everyone who enters our lives is meant to stay forever. Allah, in His wisdom, brings people into our lives for various reasons. Some come to teach us lessons, some to help us through difficult times, and others challenge us and help us grow. Fortunately, a blessed few remain with us through all the seasons.

Many will stand by your side when the sun shines. They celebrate your victories, rejoice in your success, and enjoy your company when life is easy. But when hardship comes when we face loss, disappointment, or trials the circle of support often becomes smaller.

Allah reminds us that trials reveal what is hidden in our hearts. Difficult moments expose our sincerity, loyalty, and true character. Those who stay with us during storms are a mercy from Allah like roots that keep us grounded when strong winds try to pull us away.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught us the importance of sincere companionship. True friends are there not only in good times but also when we forget about Allah, when we falter, and during our hardest moments. They remind us of our faith and encourage us to keep going.

At the same time, we should remember not to hold bitterness towards those who leave. Every person in our lives plays a role known to Allah. Some bring blessings, other lessons, and some are both. Though their departure can hurt, Allah may be creating space for new growth, healing, and opportunities we cannot yet see.

As we reflect today, ask yourself: Who remains when life gets tough? Have you thanked them? Prayed for them? And more importantly, are you becoming that person for someone else?

May Allah bless us all to be loyal friends, faithful family members, and sincere servants who support each other in every season. May He grant us companions who bring us closer to Him, strengthen us in hardship, and keep us grounded in faith and love. Āmīn

Asnage CASTELLY, BCC

Chaplain (CPT), USA

Chaplain Clinician

06/03/2026

Jewish Word of the Week

The Tactical Word: Parshat Nasso

In the military, we thrive on accountability—personnel counts, inventories, and pre-combat checks are the bedrock of readiness. This week’s Torah portion, Parshat Nasso, opens with a command to take a census of the families within the camp, but the literal Hebrew phrase utilized is Nasso et rosh, which translates precisely to "lift up the head." The preeminent medieval commentator Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, 11th Century) notes that this phrasing elevates the census from a cold statistical count to an explicit recognition of individual status and worth. This linguistic nuance carries a profound leadership lesson for every Soldier. Accountability is not merely treating people like numbers on a spreadsheet or checking a box on a manifest. To truly count your people, you must lift them up.

The text goes on to detail the highly specific operational tasks assigned to each family, from transporting the heaviest structural components of the sanctuary to handling its most delicate sacred vessels. As the Talmud teaches in Tractate Berakhot 58a, "Just as their faces are not identical, so their minds are not identical," yet each was essential to the mission. True readiness is achieved when every member of the unit knows that their specific, unique contribution matters and that their leadership sees them as distinct human beings rather than interchangeable slots on a document. When a leader "lifts the head" of a subordinate, they reinforce the individual’s connection to the larger mission, transforming compliance into commitment.

As you look at the operations ahead, take time to conduct a deliberate check on the morale of your section. Identify a teammate or subordinate and actively "lift their head" by acknowledging a specific contribution they made to the mission recently. Ensuring your people know their value is the ultimate pre-combat check for organizational resilience and cohesion.

All the best,

Scott I. Klein, Ed.D.

Chaplain / Rabbi

407th LSB, 2nd MBCT, 82nd ABN DIV

Fort Bragg, NC 28307

06/03/2026

As Mental Health Awareness Month came to a close, I spent some time thinking about hope. Not shallow optimism. Not pretending everything is fine. Real hope.

Benjamin E. Mays once said: “However hard the road, however difficult today, tomorrow things will be better. Tomorrow may not be better, but we must believe that it will be.”

I think that matters because many people are carrying things nobody else can see. Stress. Grief. Anxiety. Exhaustion. Loneliness. Sometimes the hardest battles are the quiet ones.

And my faith tells me something important about that struggle. In Romans 5, Paul describes what almost sounds like God’s training plan for the human soul: tribulation produces patience, patience produces experience, and experience produces hope. Not because suffering is good in itself, but because enduring hardship teaches us that we can survive things we once thought would break us. Over time, that experience becomes the foundation for hope.

One of my CPE educators shared something his grandmother used to say: “Hope isn’t knowing that things will change, but that they can change.” I’ve never forgotten that distinction because hope comes from the experiences we learn through patience while going through tribulation.

As always, if you find yourself stuck in the process, I stand ready to help carry the load.
—Chappie

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