If it is to be, it is up to me Published Aug. 7, 2008 By Master Sgt. Douglas Crossen 607th Support Group first sergeant OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- If it is to be, it is up to me! Repeat this phrase a couple of times. What do you think it means? I heard these 10 most important two-letter words at the NCO Academy. At first, they didn't really mean a whole lot to any of us. But as the discussion went on, it became apparent this would be something for me to remember and pass on for years to come. What should you garner from this? Sometimes we need the most obvious things explained to us. You are in control of your life and your career. You must be the one to make decisions, act on and follow through with them. We, as the world's greatest Air Force, give each and every Airman the resources to help them become the best Airman, NCO, SNCO, officer they can be. It is up to the individual Airman to use these tools. Do you want that promotion? I can make sure you have promotion study materials, but I can't study for you. Would you like a college degree? The Air Force provides you 100 percent tuition assistance, but no one can take a class for you. Would you like to be the next "fill in the blank" of the quarter? Your supervisor and first sergeant have told you what you need to do, but no one can do it for you. There isn't anyone around who has gotten to where they are right now by themselves, but to get where they are, they had to do it themselves. Set yourself up for success, capitalize on opportunities you have and reap the benefits. Just remember no matter what it is, if you want something, you can do it. All the while, keep thinking of those 10 most important two-letter words ... If it is to be, it is up to me!