Hey guys,

so I am 19, and have hit a moment in life where I really don't know what to do. I don't have the money (or interest really) in college, and am thinking of joining the military. I love guns, camping, etc. So I was thinking of going for army ranger, especially after some volunteer work I did in northern Iraq last fall. However, I am waiting for a little bit to get in outstanding shape. (Already hit the gym every day) but something else feels like it's holding me back, and I can't quite put my finger on it.

Secondly,

Ever since I got back from Iraq, my mother (I live with my mother still) has treated me as if I am defective. (Or so it seems to me) I was in a combat role during my stay there, as a volunteer fighter with the Kurds. (Great people btw) and she treats me as if I have PTSD or some shit. I promise, I don't; there was some ugly days, but I just accept it, shit happens. And yet she still treats me as if I am a child, henpecking, nagging, etc.

For example, I have trouble sleeping some nights. I always have. My father (not in the picture) always had insomnia, and it looks like I do too. Now that I am back, she uses my trip to explain it, and every other issue she may have with me, however small. In addition to not always getting a solid eight in every night, I have always been on the thinnish side, at 175 and 6 foot. I don't get that urge to eat when I haven't in a while, and coupled with exercise every day, that keeps me pretty trim. She knows about these two issues, and I will explain how she uses them to belittle me.

As an example, She offered to pickup food on her way home a few nights ago, (five guys) and I said yes please, but no fries as I'm not starved. It already a greasy burger, I don't need to add more. She then said, and I quote, "oh, so now are you gonna lose a bunch of weight?" I hung up. This is far from the first time she's thrown little jabs in, despite the fact that I have respectfully asked her to stop several times, and given that she is in horrible shape, and overweight by about 30 pounds, I don't understand why she judges me for my decisions given her own. I went to the gym that night, (she didn't bring home any food anyway) and she and I haven't said a word to each other in two days.

This is where the military comes in; free housing, food, and a good little paycheck for doing stuff I really enjoy anyway. But a 4 year contract is a big jump, and I'm just feeling kind of lost.

I help around the house with literally anything I am asked to do, the lawn, work on cars, even replace the attic insulation. It feels as though I am not offered the same respect I give her.

/end rant

Not sure if this sub is appropriate, but you all seem to be level-headed, and you're a community I feel has men's collective back. What are your thoughts?