Why Community Matters
Community isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. In a life where everything changes, where moves are frequent and challenges are plenty, having people who get it makes all the difference.
Living with a Chronic Illness as a Defence Spouse
Defence life is unpredictable. It’s built on constant change, last-minute plans, and a level of uncertainty that makes managing a chronic illness even harder. Living with rheumatoid arthritis while juggling relocations, solo parenting, and an ever-changing routine isn’t easy. Some days, I manage. Other days, I don’t. But I’ve learned to prioritise rest, build a support system beyond my husband, and adapt in ways I never thought possible.
Managing Friendships and Social Life Through Frequent Moves
Frequent moves make friendships complicated. Some connections will be instant, others will be fleeting, and some will fade despite your best efforts. It’s the reality of Defence life – constantly saying hello and goodbye, sometimes feeling at home, and sometimes feeling completely out of place. Not every friendship will last forever, but that doesn’t make them less important. The key is knowing which ones are worth the effort and letting go of the guilt when some naturally fade.
Asking for and Accepting Help Gracefully
Many of us struggle to ask for help, feeling like we should handle everything on our own. But the truth? No one does life alone. Asking for and accepting help gracefully isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a recognition that support makes us stronger. Whether it’s childcare, work, or just emotional support, reaching out can feel uncomfortable, but it’s also necessary. This post explores why we find it hard to ask for help, how to do it without guilt, and how to accept it with grace. Because the reality is, we’re all better when we lean on each other.
