Dealing with change Published Aug. 3, 2011 By Maj. Nicholl Dial 22nd Force Support Squadron MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- In some way, everyone has or will be affected by change. It is the way we process and deal with change that can make all the difference. Today, we are faced with evolving national priorities, sustained conflict, a weakening economy, budget constraints and uncertainties about the security of our jobs. Even at McConnell, we have just witnessed unusually high turnover in leadership among our squadron, group and wing commanders. New leadership means a new focus on initiatives and objectives, and it means a new leadership philosophy. In the midst of change, the 22nd Air Refueling Wing has endured a sustained high operations tempo, while also gearing up for an operational readiness inspection. It is easy for those outside the military to look at these converging circumstances and shake their heads, considering it a helpless and daunting situation. One thing that make us unique from our civilian counterparts is our ability to adapt to change. We are versatile ... we are resilient. We maintain our resiliency by caring for ourselves, our families, our communities and our fellow Airmen.. It is a fact, however, that we all handle the pressures of change differently. Some of us are more resilient than others. I encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities available to build strong relationships with your family members and peers, develop your technical expertise and receive mentorship from more experienced professionals. Organizations like the Airman and Family Readiness Center, base chapel, community center, library and the Health and Wellness Center, to name a few, offer a wide range of programs focused on building Airman resiliency. There are also peer groups like the Airman's Council, Company Grade Officers' Council, Route 5/6, and Top 3 available for assistance. These organizations exist to support you and offer an invaluable opportunity to build support networks, forge lasting friendships and get involved in the base and local community. Change is among us. Resiliency is the key. Embrace it, persevere and succeed! Ducemus -- "We lead!"