That’s right I said.. I don’t need friends. Well at least that’s what I thought this move and the last. “I can live in a place for a couple of years and not have any friends. I’ve got my blogging buds online and friends from home that I can talk to all the time. I don’t need friends.” That’s what I though at least. I honestly thought to myself, “hmm I don’t have to get out and just focus on my work online. If only right?
The reality of it is that you do need friends; or at least I think you do because I do. Everyone that moves around wether you are a Military family or your spouses’s job (or your job) makes you move around, you need friends. I attended Type A Conference this past weekend in Atlanta and I felt so happy as Angela and I drove off. Well sad and happy. Sad that I was leaving such an awesome environment. People that got me, knew and understood what it is I do. It was wonderful. I felt my friends.
But back to what I’m talking about not needing friends. I realized about three months into the move that I did need friends. I need IRL (in real life) interaction and while I talk to friends across the country often it’s just not enough. Don’t get me wrong, my family is very fulfilling but sometimes you need to get out and chat with other people. I’m a talker remember?
I decided early on in the move that I would put myself out there and attempt to make friends. I had a possibly deployment looming over me and the thought of not knowing anyone while the hubs was gone really gave me anxiety. I actually got a little depressed too. I’m past it thank goodness and I’m so happy to have made some great friends here. It was not easy, this has been one of the harder duty stations to make friends at for some reason. Others have said the same too. I think personally there is a huge disconnect but I could be wrong. One of my friends from back when we were stationed at Fort Bragg (2006-2009), actually just moved here and I’m so happy she’s here. We are a lot a like and I can call her anytime to come hang out. I’m really glad she’s here. The friend situation is good for me here and I’m so glad I put myself out there because I do need friends!!
I hear you! I love my online friends but we do need some real life face to face contact too. Friends in all shapes and forms are very important to have. specially as we grow old.