The End of Two Eras: Goodbye Air Force & Forest Service

It’s been a while since I’ve posted here, and to be honest… these past few months have been a lot.

Not just because I was a federal employee, but because I was also in the Air Force Reserve. When the federal government started shifting under new Executive Orders, it hit both of my worlds at once. As someone working in the Equal Opportunity office for both roles, the weight of the changes was overwhelming.

Each week, those “What Did You Do This Week?” emails became a source of anxiety instead of accountability. What started off feeling routine slowly became a signal of uncertainty—of wondering if I’d have a job at all much longer.

Eventually, after weeks of waiting, researching, and holding my breath, I got my answer: I was eligible to take the DRP 2.0.

Now, I know calling myself “fortunate” to take the DRP might sound strange. But after hearing from others who were terminated or placed on admin leave with no option to take the DRP, I truly believe it was a blessing in disguise. Many never got a choice. I did.

Still, leaving isn’t easy.

I’ve spent years helping others through the Civil Rights mission. My colleagues became more than coworkers—they became chosen family. But with nearly every federal building in Chicago up for sale and the nearest “commutable” office being 2–2.5 hours away (thanks, city traffic), staying in my role would’ve come at too high a cost—especially when it comes to my safety and well-being.

So, on April 18—Good Friday, ironically—I said goodbye to my Forest Service family. Quietly. The office was mostly empty. And while I know I’ll stay in touch with a few people, we all know… it won’t be the same.

I didn’t want to leave. But the truth is, I felt pushed to choose between a rock and a hard place. And I chose what felt like the least painful option.

And now, another chapter is closing: on May 23, 2025, I officially retire from the United States Air Force after 21 years of service.

I’ve decided not to have a retirement ceremony. Honestly? It doesn’t feel like a celebration. For the first time in my life, I won’t be tied to the military or the federal government. And while that’s terrifying... it’s also kind of freeing.

I'm standing at the edge of the unknown—no job, no uniform, no clear roadmap—and it’s scary. But it’s also the first time in a long time that I get to ask: What do I actually want next?

To Everyone Going Through This Too…

You’re not alone.

If you're feeling uncertain, if you're mourning the loss of your role or routine, or if you’re standing in front of a future that feels completely unclear—I’m right there with you.

And as Fernando Sabino once said:

“Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.”

It doesn’t feel okay right now. Which means… it must not be the end.

So let’s take a deep breath. Let's give ourselves grace. And let’s see what comes next.

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Together, we’re figuring it out—one decision, one day at a time.