[header] How to deal with opposition to joining the military [title] Understand the reason for the opposition. [step] Your parents may have a knee-jerk reaction due to fear for your safety. War is dangerous and violent, and no parent wants to see their child harmed. 
Friends may feel abandoned by you, or react out of jealousy. The military, while tough and demanding, also has many rewards and opportunities that are not found in the civilian world.