I have been waiting for this very email, in one way or another, for twenty-six years. I didn’t know it was going to be a twenty-six year wait, and I could have never anticipated the twists and turns that life would take in those ensuing years. But here it is, nonetheless, seventeen life changing words.
When I applied for retirement, I was absolutely sure of the decision. Frankly, I still am. When I first read the words in an official capacity, there was a twinge of sadness and ambivalence. The career I have put so much into and worked so hard at is going to end. I was struck by the finality of it, but excited that I will have the opportunity to start a new chapter in my life post Air Force.
For the past two and a half decades, there have been clear-cut expectations on what I need to accomplish every day, I knew what my left and right boundaries were, and I even knew where I could go for direction. I mean, I didn’t even have to decide what to wear. That is all going to change in a year. In ways it already has as I dedicate time and energy into preparations for doing life different. It is daunting to say the least.
I am excited though. I’m going to try and work for myself, make a practice, build a business, and enact change. The prospect is scary, but it makes me happy to think about and usually the tasks to try and make this happen, although new and unfamiliar, bring energy and expansion of my mind and soul. This anticipated change at this moment is exciting. Let’s see how it goes.