This is probably what it's like after being queen
The SCA tradition cycles couples through their time as our Royalty; I've watched many friends spending months adjusting to answering to 'Highness,' then switching to the appellation 'Majesty' at Coronation. Finally, there is the end of a reign and as they lay aside the burden of the crown, so too do they set aside those temporary titles. But the reflex remains. Your ears perk up even when it's no longer your charge to answer.
Call signs are just another sort of title, imbued with authority and carrying responsibility. For months, I've been answering to Flight or Launch Director to the point that even when I'm not officially in the on duty, I can't stop listening for the call out, can't stop twitching as if I'm obligated to answer. Today is the first time in six solid weeks I'm not near a loop, not on a headset, not juggling who's covering next, who's relieving me, who's briefed on the next op, who's answering long enough so I can go take a nap.
It feels good.
Call signs are just another sort of title, imbued with authority and carrying responsibility. For months, I've been answering to Flight or Launch Director to the point that even when I'm not officially in the on duty, I can't stop listening for the call out, can't stop twitching as if I'm obligated to answer. Today is the first time in six solid weeks I'm not near a loop, not on a headset, not juggling who's covering next, who's relieving me, who's briefed on the next op, who's answering long enough so I can go take a nap.
It feels good.