Especially in the season of PCSes, it’s not uncommon to hear military spouses say: 

“When we’re in our forever house …”
“When we retire … ”
“When our kids are older …”
“Someday we’ll do that.” 

I’ve been guilty of it myself.

I remember a few years ago we were looking at new furniture and I immediately thought, “Maybe after this duty station.”

I grew up hearing my Dad say, “This isn’t a dress rehearsal,” referring to life in general.

I’m not sure that I fully appreciated it until adulthood. It resonates even more today as I realize the time we have with our teenager in the house ticks away each day.

Our family enjoys traveling a great deal. We love to do weekend trips, explore the National Parks, and we aim to get in one international trip a year.

I was recently chatting with a friend and she was shocked to learn about our vacation plans.

“Someday maybe we’ll take a trip like that,” she sighed.

I asked what was stopping them from going, but she didn’t have a solid answer. 

Now, international travel may not be on your list of desires.

And even if it is, there are a variety of reasons that this isn’t the right season for that. I totally get that there are finances, leave situations, and other things to consider. 

Maybe you’re eyeing a gorgeous new couch but are afraid of what will happen when the movers get ahold of it.

Perhaps you’re thinking of going back to school but are afraid of what will happen if you have to transfer schools after a PCS.

Maybe you’re delaying buying new hobby equipment like a new table saw or longarm machine, but afraid of not having space in the future.

Have you put off making friends because “we’re going to move anyway.”

Don’t wait!

Don’t spend your life waiting for tomorrow. For the next duty station. For retirement. For your kids to grow up. 

As military families know all too often, we’re not guaranteed tomorrow. Go out and do the things today that will bring you joy!

Take the pottery class. Go back to school. Buy the camper. Join the team.

And, if there are legitimate reasons stopping you, find alternatives! 

Want to travel to Mexico, but money is tight? Head to the library and get some authentic cookbooks and cook together and have a themed dinner.

Want a new couch but have a puppy that’s still in the chewing phase? Pick up an inexpensive slipcover to satisfy your redecorating itch.

Want to plan a vacation but afraid a mission will impact plans? Get trip insurance so if plans need to change, you’re not out all the money.

Enjoy the time you’re given, even through the hard days.

Don’t wait for a day that may never come.

As we prepare for our summer vacation, I am grateful that I see the wisdom in my Dad’s words and that we try to enjoy each day as it comes. 

Thanks, Dad. You’re spot on. Life isn’t a dress rehearsal. 

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