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My Orientation

Friday, April 12, 2013 12:10 | Deleted user

It all began one December morning, while I was at my desk my mom asked me if I could accompany her to visit, available, office space. Once there I met a retired Marine who turned out to be the founder of the Southwest Veteran Resource Center. After a few discussions and heated debates about the value of the “Learner” program, I’m here ready to share my thoughts. 

Comments

  • Friday, April 12, 2013 19:26 | Deleted user
    Welcome Luis. I hope you approach this task with a positive attitude even though you were likely persuaded to pursue the task after heated debates. Put that behind and look at the situation as a challenge. A negative attitude generally results in failure. As you progress the situation will cause you to look at your life. Both your successes and failures and discover how your positive attitudes resulted in success. A bit of self analysis is usually a step in the right direction, and helps you with future decisions. I have been under the gun on a few occasions. Having positive attitude always resulted in great outcomes.
    Many years ago a nurse reported to the Chief nurse that I was a rotten nurse. The Cdr. informed me she was sending me to another ward to prove my abilities. Only to be met by a Corpsman that informed me he was the worst corpsman in the Navy. I looked at him and said I don't care what others have said. Starting now that is history and you and I are going to make this the best run ward in this hospital. He became a shinning assistant and a few weeks later the
    Cdr. called me back to her office and told me, I had not only proved myself but far exceeded her expectations.
    So you see if you maintain a positive attitude the results will be favorable. Besides you don't want your rear end chewed out by a nurse that was nicknamed Gunny by my Marine patients while stationed here at Camp Pendleton. So carry on Marine unless you want my foot planted on your backside. Semper Fi. Carol










    cdr
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    • Monday, April 15, 2013 13:45 | Deleted user
      Carol,
      First of all, I thank you for your service and your words of motivation. I’m excited about reading your comments, as I tread forward with the program. If one thing I learned in the Marine Corps was that, giving up was not an option; I must always look for the seven avenues of approach.

      As the NCOIC of the mail room for 2/1, I was responsible for the delivery of mail to 1300+ Marines. Now that’s a simple task when everyone is at the rear, but once we got to Iraq in 2009, and those 1300 where spread out through 5 different FOBs it didn’t turn out to be not so simple. I quickly learned that I could designate a SNCOIC, from each Company and/or section, as a responsible custodian of their corresponding Company’s/section’s mail. That made all the difference, because there was always a convoy going out, and I could get the mail to those Marines. After we got back, I received a certificate of commendation for my efforts in Iraq.

      I will make sure not to walk with a limp, by avoiding the planting of any foot, and I invite you to invite others to share their thoughts.

      Semper Fi,
      Luis
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    • Sunday, April 28, 2013 22:08 | Abigail Duran
      Luis, I'm so proud of the person you have become after everything that you have been through. Keep up the good work! Love , Pam
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      • Monday, April 29, 2013 23:37 | Deleted user
        Thank you Pam,

        Feel free to comment on my thoughts, as I express my career goals. Also, the greater our community the stronger our reach. With that said feel free to invite others to join in the Fun!

        Your old friend
        Luis
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  • Thursday, April 18, 2013 11:30 | RITA CASILLAS DE TRUJILLO
    Hola Hijo siempre esavido que tu tienes un grand potencial y yo se que todo loque tepropones lo logras eres una persona que lucha por sus sueños y no serinde yo verdaderamente creo que con el Apollo de el señor fundador Albert Renteria y tu dedicasion y esfuerso vas a lograr tu meta de ser un gran hombre de negocio,.tedeso la major de la suerte y cuentas 100% con mi Apollo.
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    • Thursday, April 18, 2013 13:41 | Deleted user
      Gracias Ma,

      Gracias por siempre estar a mi lado en mis decisiones. Me acuerdo cuando nos metimos al negocio de las aseguransas y ibamos a las classes para sacar la licensia. Fueron unos momentos que nos demostro que unidos somos mas fuertes. Primero Dios pronto vamos a poder unir nuestros esfuerzos profesionales y brindar les nuestros servicios a la comunidad.

      Te invito a seguir mis blogs y que invites a los demas para que partisipen en la fiesta!

      Love,
      Luis
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      • Tuesday, April 23, 2013 10:50 | RITA CASILLAS DE TRUJILLO
        SI La union ace la fuerza y poder brindar nuestro servicios a nuestra comunidad es mi major deseo professionalmente ablando tu saves como megusta porder ayudar a nuestra jente.
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  • Monday, April 22, 2013 17:21 | Deleted user
    My orientation, took me back to my Marine Corps days; there was a lot of information thrown at me at once. As I tried to grasp all the information, it created a pool of thoughts in my mind. One concept, which had an instant effect on my thought process, was the PIE. Understanding that our decisions are based on a Physical, Emotional, or an Intellect state of mind, has helped me understand my thought process. This is a great concept to grasp in order to make sound decisions. Which state of mind are you in, when you make your business decisions?

    Luis Casillas
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    • Tuesday, April 23, 2013 14:22 | Deleted user
      Hello Luis, I'm glad to see that there are still people in this world that do what they can to help other people. I've thought over the question that you asked and when making a business decision I would like to think that I'm in an intellectual state of mind. Making a rash decision is never a good thing to do. I know that people's emotions sometimes interfere with their thought process which is not always for the best. I've never really thought of my mind as a PIE, but if you think about it, it does make sense. Each section of your brain being divided by your emotions, your physical being, and the intellectual level that you think at. I just wish that there were more people in this world that would take the time to think about this before doing some of the crazy things that they do. It is almost as if some never really think at all. You are one of the rare few in this world and I'm so thankful that I got the chance to meet you in our Accounting classes going through school.
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      • Tuesday, April 23, 2013 14:53 | Deleted user
        Grace,

        Thank you for your post. You’re right rash decisions are not good for business. I like how you played with the idea of dividing your brain into either an emotional, physical or intellectual state, because in reality that’s what we do; it’s not possible to think intellectually while our mind is full of emotions. Grace the pleasure of having you as a class mate was all mines. In an online program we tend to miss out on some of the face to face interaction with other students. Although we have not had any face to face, we have helped each other through our friendship filled with support and encouragement.
        Feel free to invite others to join our community and be a part of the fun!

        Your Class Mate,
        Luis
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  • Wednesday, April 24, 2013 15:45 | Deleted user
    Luis, thanks for inviting me to your blog---

    After our meeting on Monday, I knew you are a man of details but you also see the Big Picture:-- especially as it concerns you and your new assignment. THAT already sets you apart from the crowd. Most people can only focus on one or the other, but, there are relatively a few who can operate at ground level and at 30,000 feet! Life requires both but only a few succeed.

    If I were to put some light on your path:-
    -Develop a servant heart and attitude toward life.
    -Stay humble -- we never have all the answers.
    -TRUTH has many facets and we cannot see them all.
    -Forgive others who hurt you. It does a world of good FOR YOU!
    -Don't rely on your understanding. Our perceptions toward any issue are ALWAYS AND ONLY colored by our past. They rarely have any connection with the Present- which is a brand new gift.
    -Ask questions of people you trust, do your research, and ask God for help. If you can, let all the current data incubate for a day or two. Then take the knowledge of your "lessons learned" with the new input and make the best decision you can. NOW you have done your best. Whether it comes out good or not - look at what you have gained.
    -Take accountability of the outcome but don't let Pride go to your head. There is another problem around the corner and there may be a hidden banana peel on your path you cannot see.
    -Sharpen your skills so they are like surgical knives. You'll never be unemployed.

    I'm a really happy for you and your new career path. Just take one day at a time and take time to smell the roses. You cannot change the past and tomorrow has not been given to you yet.

    Take Care, stay in touch- and
    God Bless,
    "RJ"
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    • Wednesday, April 24, 2013 16:46 | Deleted user
      RJ,

      Thank you for your service and thank you for your thoughts, filled with inspiration and, thought provoking, encouragement. As you mentioned, I have done my best and have no regrets. I’m a true believer of the old notion that there is no bad experience, as long as we learn from it. I thank God every day for what I have and stopped complaining about what I don’t have. I’m excited about serving my time here at the Southwest Veterans’ Business Resource Center. In my orientation, we spoke about harvesting our knowledge and using it to end veteran homelessness, and build awareness within our community.
      Harvesting the knowledge which I have gained, and will uncover in the future is a great way to give back and make this a better place for those after us. The power of information is often overlooked. It is up to us, the veterans, who must come together and leave our egos at the door step. With that said, I invite you to encourage others to join our community, and follow my progress through this blog. I have my VA card, do you?

      We shall stay in touch,
      Luis
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      • Saturday, April 27, 2013 18:25 | Charlotte Rodriguez
        Luis, I'm very impressed with your blog. It is really motivating to read that you focus on what you have not what you don't have. More people should think like that. Life's to short to complain . I look forward to reading more of your words of window. It's seems like you have really learned a lot from your time serve in the military. Take care
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        • Saturday, April 27, 2013 18:40 | Deleted user
          Charlotte,

          Thank you for your thoughts. It's great to have you join our community. As you follow my blog and become more aware of the value Veterans bring to our community, you will become a great source of information for the veterans in your family. I invite you to follow me as I progress through the program, and invite others to join in the fun!

          Your old friend,
          Luis
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  • Friday, April 26, 2013 08:06 | Deleted user
    Greetings Community,

    Yesterday was a great day, at the Southwest Veterans’ Business Resource Center, I learned a lot about how to treat employees and contractors when it comes down to payroll. I took away a lot of useful resources that are essential to any Company’s success. Leticia Lozano, from the Employment Development Department, for the State of California, gave an informative presentation. She touched on a few issues such as the correct forms to file when hiring and dismissing employees, Employer’s state requirements, and Recordkeeping. Also, this would not have been possible if not for the contributions of Wells Fargo; thanks to Mohammad Salem, and Benjamin J. Doughty, from Wells Fargo, for their support, and presentation. Last but not least, I want to thank Kathrine Latta, for the delicious attention to detail. The seminar made me reflect on my orientation, specifically my 4-9 options of life.
    The 4-9 options of life concept, is derived from the game of Chest. A chest player knows that when a king is cornered he has 4 options; three options will cause him to move one square, the fourth option is not to move at all. Also, if the king is found somewhere on the board where he has eight squares to make a move, he then has 9 options; again eight will cause him to move and the ninth one will keep in the same square. This is a great concept of life, because we all have options in life and one of those is not to do anything. Having these options is what makes America great. As I blog, I will share my 4-9 options of life; I invite everyone to share their thoughts on the concept?

    Luis Casillas
    USMC, Vet
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    • Friday, April 26, 2013 21:49 | Deleted user
      Luis, I am honored to be part of your network. You represent the future of this great nation of ours, and your journey is one that we all, as a community have a responsibility to actively be involved with. I have learned much from you and look forward to being a flashlight to help light the path along your way.

      Kathrine
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      • Saturday, April 27, 2013 18:23 | Deleted user
        Kathrine,

        I look forward to every conversation we share, they are filled with a lot of knowledge which have helped guide my thoughts. It is the responsibility of us all to come together, and make our community better for those after us.

        Luis
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    • Monday, April 29, 2013 09:27 | Mohammad Salem
      Luis,

      I’m pleased to hear that you enjoyed the seminar & you were able to take some information away that may contribute some value to your future plans.

      I believe the seminar on Wednesday, 04/24/2013 was very educational, especially to those businesses who have or plan to hire employees. Its always nice to see people from all over the region coming together at a single location to network, learn, & empower success.

      I look forward to the next upcoming events, and I know they will be more successful than the last!

      Best Regards,
      Mohammad Salem
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      • Thursday, May 02, 2013 23:17 | Deleted user
        Mohammad,

        Thank you for your thoughts. I also know that our upcoming events will be filled with a lot of knowledge. I'm excited about attending our next event, on May 23, 2013 at 0900-13:30.

        We shall stay connected and feel free to invite others to share their thoughts. The only negative opinions are those not shared; with that said feel free to critique.

        Continued Success,
        Luis
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  • Friday, April 26, 2013 09:51 | Vashaun Price
    I walked in the Southwest Veteran Resource Center for help and was satisfied from the help and response from Mr. Casilla and Mr. Renteria. Thanks.
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    • Saturday, April 27, 2013 17:44 | Deleted user
      Vashaun,

      You are welcome. Your experience is living proof that relationships are built through a constant flow of information. Although, you had knocked on a couple doors before finding us, it was the information we shared with you that created our relationship. This whole situation reminds me of the three pillars of e-commerce, taught in my orientation.

      According to the three pillars of e-commerce concept, when information is shared, relationships are built and as a result transactions are made. Before you came in, we had never met. After we got acquainted, Albert came in and shared with you valuable information, which got you where you had to be, hence the first pillar (information). After you realized our intentions where to do nothing more than help you, you shared more information about yourself, thus creating a relationship (the second pillar “relationship”). Now, the third pillar, (transaction), was created when, I invited you to post on my Blog. The three pillars of e-commerce is a concept which is very simple, because it happens every day we don’t realize that it’s happening.

      Now a day, we have a world of information at our finger tips. Sometimes we just don’t know where to look.

      Luis
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  • Tuesday, April 30, 2013 22:00 | JUANA CHIAPAS
    Hi Luis, just wanted to say thanks for inviting me to your blog, and also to say that although I've known you for a short period of time I always heard very positive things about you from your mom. Once having the opportunity to speak with you I realized that she wasn't wrong, your are a driven and motivated person who works hard to achieve his goals.

    I wish you much success,
    Juana
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    • Wednesday, May 01, 2013 08:11 | Deleted user
      Juana,

      Thank you for your time and support. Since I started to volunteer, for the Southwest Veterans’ Business Resource Center, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. It has become my mission to harvest and share with my community and fellow Veterans, the knowledge I will continue to gain. Feel free to follow my progress and share your thoughts; I challenge you to critique my work.

      Welcome to our community,
      Luis
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  • Thursday, May 02, 2013 22:51 | Olivia Barnes
    Hello Luis, I finally got your e-mail. Thank you for you kind words. Life can be tough and downright unfair but our decision to succeed is critical to the outcome. You asked me to convey my experience as an immigrant. I was born in Chiuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico. My father for years worked the Bracero Program and when I was five he, with the help of his employer, got his wife and 3 girls a green card. Wonderful... I was extracted from my familiar and happy surroundings with family. While we lived in an adobe house with dirt floors, no running water, an outhouse down the way and little to no luxuries, I did not know we were poor. I was simply happy. We moved to Dexter, New Mexico where I was placed in school and told by my parents to speak only English so I could learn and teach my sisters. Being rebellious in nature I vowed not to speak the language so my father would take me back to family. One year later, still in rebellion, I was told I flunked first grade. In the fall as I realized I wasn't going back to Mexico anytime soon and that I was now one year behind, I caved and decide to learn English. After that I never had problems excelling in school.

    All of my education has been here in the US. Prior to completing my master's program I was required to do an internship. My internship was with the VA Hospital in Loma Linda. When filling out the applications I was informed that the VA could not pay me because I was not a US citizen. That is the first time I even thought about the fact that I was not a citizen. In 1986 I was very pregnant with my daughter when I went through the ceremony to become a US citizen. Coincidently it all took place right around the 4th of July. I have never looked back.

    My experience as a child during the time that I could not communicate in English and when I actually got in trouble for speaking Spanish shaped my view of thing in ways that I only recently understood; however, regardless of the obstacles I have never given up or considered myself defeated.

    By you going through the learners program you are setting your path, seeing a vision/goal to work for, motivating yourself to persist and succeed. Hats off to you Luis! Keep on the path and never lose sight of the finish line. I have full confidence that you will complete the race. Rock it dude!
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    • Friday, May 03, 2013 00:02 | Deleted user
      Olivia,

      Thank you for sharing your experience. As I mentioned before, there is nothing that motivates me more than meeting people, who come from humble beginnings, in successful positions. I've lived in similar circumstances, and I'm great full; for if not for those times, I would not be the man I am today.

      I'm looking forward to our future at the Southwest Veterans' Resource Center. Your knowledge and experience are amulets and should be shared with the community. Collectively we have the resources to end Veteran homelessness.

      Una casa no es un hogar hasta que la habita una familia; esta communida solo sera otra ciudad si no cuidamos de ella como nuestro hogar.

      Your Xicano,
      Luis Casillas
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      • Thursday, May 16, 2013 15:03 | Neftaly Longoria
        Luis,

        I just want to wish you the best of luck in all of your success. I have no doubt that you will do great things in anything you put focus on. You are truly a great person and friend and can't wait until we meet again. If you ever need anything you know who you can call.
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DOD Welcome home-small.jpg A welcoming home for our Troops.

Welcoming home our men and women doesn't end after the crowd disperses, it MUST continue on for the life of the Veteran! They've served us, now we will serve them with programs that work so they reintegrate into society.

We are a national public benefit nonprofit organization that educates American Communities about best practices to serve Veterans.  We honor their service by empowering Veterans to apply their training and skills to successfully transition to productive careers and enterprises.

We provide free vocational training 24/7 to all of our members through our website, in addition to local events.  We believe the tenet that American Communities are the ultimate beneficiaries when Veterans claim their benefits and invest in productive endeavors.

The SWVBRC enlists the support of members of local Communities like you to increase Veteran awareness of the value of obtaining a VA card and receiving earned benefits.

Sponsorships, donations, volunteers and support from communities like yours enable us to reach out to Veterans and empower them to transition back into successful, productive enterprises that ultimately benefit all Americans and support future generations.

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