I'm 18 now and 16 years of my life was spent serving as a military "brat." This time was spent being away from my dad, and moving. Moving to new towns (4), new schools (6), and new houses (10). I had to make new friends, some gained and some lost. This life meant I had to learn to adjust to new situations. While some may look at this with negativity, which sometimes I did, I got to experience a different community in this world. Which leads into why you shouldn't show me or others sympathy, we all have different lives and this just happens to be ours.

1. Growing up earlier

Having a parent away sometimes meant stepping up in the house. Whether that be helping with siblings or chores. Though growing up faster than others meant people could see this and were a little more lenient toward us.

2. Oh, the places we go.

While moving can be upsetting and stressful, the places it takes us are some of the best. Many of military families go places some only dream of.

3. Skills

Just one of the many things we learn...phonetic alphabet. It's like almost knowing a secret language that most don't know. Also some days just going to shoot is normal, cause we've been taught how to handle guns.

4. Friends

Simply if I hadn't moved I wouldn't have majority of the friends I do today. I've met people of many different diversities and I have to say this was one of the best experiences.

5. Discounts

Sea World and most importantly DISNEY WORLD is all I have to say!

6. Adjusting to change

This can be difficult for many people but thankfully for me the military made me realize things would most likely never stay the same for long. Things other than just moving, and having new houses and schools became easier.

So, some advice I'd give is that the next time you're talking to a military child don't say sorry; because we aren't. Most of us wouldn't change this life for anything. I've learned many lessons through my journey and they've helped me in many areas of my life. Military children become stronger, independent, intelligent and over-comers. It's a rough life at times but it's not impossible!