Joy in the journey.

I don't know why I'm feeling the "funk" lately.  Perhaps it's related to the phases of PCS.  This was explained to me on an internet forum that I am active in.

Here's how one Navy brat explained it:

Phase 1- the beginning, no friends and awkward outings. Feeling very left out like I won't find a place here.

Phase 2- finally fitting in! Feeling comfortable and running into people while out and chatting. Have usually found my "best friend" by now. I find one everywhere I move.

Phase 3- nearing our end of the tour. Getting moody and antsy and depressed at having to be ripped away from friends yet again. Ready to rip the band aid off and move already! Especially since I'm usually the last of the friend circle to move

There is a lot of truth to this.  Right now, I'm in the first phase.  We've been in San Antonio for three months.  I'm not entirely friendless, but, I don't have a close-knit group of girlfriends like I had in Hawaii.  I am feeling left out and like I don't have a place to belong.

This summer I was in the third phase and I'm not sure which was is worse.  Both phases cause feelings of angst.  What I had to realize that my feelings were okay to have but it is NOT okay to stay "stuck" in any one phase.  You've got to get out there and do something.  Make your own destiny.  You must choose to find the joy in your journey.  If you don't, you won't ever move forward.

Life lessons are hard.  Nobody said it would be easy.  They did say it would be worth it.

So.  Here I am.  Finding joy in the journey.