We have a trick for you. It’s a trick you can do easily, right here on this blog post. It’ll inspire you. It’ll open your eyes. And it might even teach you a lesson.

Not courtesy of us, of course, but from the United States Marine Corps. They’re the stars of this show, and you’ll see why in a minute.

Here’s how the trick begins. First, read this passage to yourself. As you do most things (we assume) read it normally and in your natural voice:

Sit up straight and look at me right now. My name is Staff Sargent May and I am your Senior Drill Instructor. I am assisted in my duties by: Drill Instructor Staff Sargent and Drill Instructor Staff Sargent K. Our mission is to train each one of you to become a United States Marine. A Marine is characterized as one who possesses the highest military virtues. He obeys orders, respects his seniors, and strives constantly to be the best in everything that he does. Discipline and spirit are the hallmarks of a Marine. Each of you can become a Marine if you develop discipline and spirit. We will give every effort to train you, even after some of you have given up on yourselves. Starting now, you will treat all Marines with the highest level of respect, for we have earned our places as Marines and we will accept nothing less than that from you. We will treat you as we do our fellow Marines: with firmness, fairness, dignity and compassion. At no time will you be physically abused or verbally threatened by any Marine or recruit. If anyone should abuse or mistreat you, I expect you to report such incidents immediately to me or one of my drill instructors. Further, if you believe that I have mistreated you, I expect you to report it to your series commander, Captain H. From now on, my drill instructors and I will be with you every day and everywhere you go. I have told you what my drill instructors and I will do. From you we demand the following: You will give 100% of yourself at all times. Obey all orders, quickly, willingly, and without question. Treat all Marines and recruits with courtesy and respect. You will not physically abuse or verbally threaten any Marine or recruit. Be completely honest in everything you do. A Marine never lies, cheats, or compromises. Respect the rights and property of all others. A Marine never steals. You must work hard to strengthen you body. Be proud of yourself and the uniform you wear. Above all that, never quit or give up. For we or for you the challenge of Recruit Training – the opportunity to earn the title United States Marine.

Okay. Now. Hit play on the video below, and see how U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Jason May says it to new recruits as a senior drill instructor based out of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California …

Ain’t that something? Moral of the post? Not to get all high and mighty on y’all, but, yeah. It’s this: if you’re going to try — if you’re going to do something — do it like Staff Sgt. May here.

If you’re going to try, go all the way. Otherwise, don’t even start.