My best advice is to meet people, put yourself in positions to have to talk to people you normally wouldn't, ask questions but listen more than you speak, remain respectful, don't ever slander someone or something or assume you don't know what you're talking about (because you probably don't), and honor everyone in uniform, regardless of rank or status. Be courteous, be gentle, be good, be honest. Don't say "yes sir" to a question if you don't understand it. Communication flies at lightning speed with the language of acronyms, and when you don't know what something is, ask. Better yet, make friends with women who are willing to teach you the ropes instead of asking your husband's command (if your husband isn't around) your questions. They don't have time, and they don't care. Your responsibility is to prove that you can stand strong whether or not you have someone spoon-feeding you. That's what the men and women who serve are expected to do. As a wife, that's now your job, too. Don't be a ditz. Don't mistake a person's kindness for weakness. Be real and be to the point. Books are probably great to read. I commend myself for getting off my butt and learning without being prideful, and saw that I wasn't a wife wanting to sit home and watch talk shows all day and paint my nails. I wanted to get down and dirty and serve with the rest of 'em. Make a routine. Stick to it. Give yourself your own personal goals to meet every time your husband is away training or deployed. When he's home, put him first. When he's away, continue to put him first in whatever ways you can. Distance offers key opportunities (just as close proximity does) to express your adoration toward not only him as a Warrior but as the husband of your dreams and the number one Daddy. Devote your time to making sure he's appreciated by taking care of your duties: Upkeep of wherever you live, physical/mental/spiritual care for yourself and your children if you have any, social functions - so that your friendships don't fall apart while he's "gone", and keeping family and loved ones informed of whatever you can inform them of. Understand I would never dream of violating OPSEC, and it must always be in your mind, as well. The security of our defense system rides quite a bit more on your professionalism as a Corps Wife than you might think. It's a lot to think about, but as much of a responsibility it is (which some women relish in), it is fun. Spend time learning, and use your knowledge wisely. Anchor yourself in truth and relish in the fact that you are part of the most elite branch of the military, supporting those on the front lines: The President's Own. Yes, it's up for debate, but I do believe the Marines as a whole train harder than the other US defense forces combined. I've heard that from Army soldiers and Navy Corpsmen as well. It is totally foolish and time-wasting to dispute "Which branch is the best" though, regardless of my opinions and some opinions of others....so I'll leave you with this:
“Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't.” -Steve Maraboli
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