Name: Shannon Waters

Where were you born and raised?
Born and raised in Massachusetts

What’s a short story around the biggest transition you’ve faced in life?
My biggest transition was becoming a military spouse. Nothing could have prepared me for the responsibilities and challenges that accompany this unconventional lifestyle. However, I quickly found my strength, self-reliance and competence with the help of my new peers. I discovered an entire community who were there to help. They understood what I was going through, they had been through it: I was not alone. I deeply appreciate this community and I do my best to pay it forward.

What’s the one piece of advice you’d give a younger you?
I would say, please don’t be so hard on yourself. Don’t view mistakes and missteps as failures. These are just lessons and you should do your best to find value and the opportunity for growth in them.

Military Connection or Why do you respect Special Operators?
I have been in the SOF community as a spouse for 12 years.

Favorite THF Value, and why?
Fierce Empathy. Empathy invites engagement, honest expression, and exploration. This is one of the greatest ways to gain insight into who you are, what makes you happiest, and what direction you want to take your life in.

Area/Industry of expertise:
My background in creative allows me to evaluate different perspectives and generate a range of possibilities.

Contact Shannon directly at shannon@honor.org.