Dear Editor:

I am writing from underway on Coast Guard Cutter Northland. I am one of the three newly reported Ensigns (officers) on board. Greeted with check-in packets, new faces, and a whole lot to learn, I found myself in a new environment.

I find that when we are introduced to change or new environments, we seek normalcy. We seek consistency, stability, and something we know is always there. Whether this be a person, workout routine, meditation, or book, it helps to ease into that change.

I slowly have begun to create my own routine and “normal” onboard. If you are in the military or understand how it operates, you know this is hard to do. So, you control the controllables. I knew I could control my attitude, work ethic, and what routine I could create for myself each day.

As I logged into my workstation (laptop) and settled into my room, I started creating my “Favorites” bar in Microsoft Edge. These are typically helpful links to keep readily accessible. Since I'm new I don’t have many favorites yet, but one favorite I knew I needed was the
Boothbay Register.

Although I am not physically in the town that gave me a sense of consistency, stability, and home feeling, I know it will always be a part of me. I know every morning I can press my favorites and keep up with the small town off the coast of Maine, no matter where I am. Sometimes that’s all we need to feel stable. Control the controllables.

Glory Blethen

U.S. Coast Guard