The Nomadic Lifestyle: A Preferred Choice for Americans

Would you rather stay in one state your whole life or keep moving to different states? This question doesn't have a straightforward answer for everyone. For the author, who has experienced a life of constant movement due to military and federal careers, the choice is clear - moving to a state they love is the better option. Moving to a state you know has the terrain, weather, salary, cost of living, and cuisine that suits your preferences offers a sense of security and comfort. For the author, this means knowing exactly what they want in life and being content with it.

Continuous Movement and Adaptability

Since the author turned 18, over 50 years ago, they've been on the move constantly. This lifestyle has been further enhanced by their wife who enjoys the nomadic life. They've never lived in a place for more than two years and have undergone multiple permanent changes of station (PCS) every two years due to their careers in the military and federal service. During a 18-month period in the mid-80s, they were transferred five times, moving from California to Florida and then Kentucky, settling in St. Louis for two years.

Adapting to new environments and meeting new people is an integral part of their lifestyle. The idea of growing a "root system," settling down, and seeing the same people over and over, shopping at the same grocery stores is objectionable to them. Instead, the prospect of continuous movement and experiencing different landscapes, cultures, and people is far more appealing.

The Downside of Nomadic Living

While the nomadic lifestyle has its numerous benefits, such as experiencing different cuisines and cultures, it also has its downsides. The mention of cleaning carpets and joking about selling houses is a humorous yet relatable example of how they maintain their disposable lifestyle.

Buying and selling homes every couple of years in states across the country has resulted in only a minor profit, usually barely enough to pay the real estate agent's commission. However, the author believes they're the only people who have bought homes in California and never realized much profit, despite having multiple properties. The thought of being tied down to something in a faraway state with helpless tenants and high insurance rates has deterred them from becoming absentee landlords.

Conclusion: Continual Movement Until Physically Unpossible

Until they are physically unable to do so, the author and their wife plan to continue their nomadic lifestyle. The freedom, excitement, and adaptability that comes with such a lifestyle outweigh the downsides. This choice reflects a desire for constant change, exploration, and a lack of attachment to any one place.