I've been following Letters to the Editor in Stars & Stripes regarding a military spouse who was in need of help and wrote expressing her frustration. It was similar to letters I receive for Spouse Calls, and I've been very interested to see the answers she has received.

Other letter writers offered such good advice, I thought it was well worth mentioning here:

David Smith, a spouse and former active duty member stationed in Germany suggested calling a family support center or spouse's unit for help. His letter is a good reminder that in order to receive help, we often have to let someone know that we're in need.

Here's wonderful wisdom from Shannon Smith, stationed in Japan (click here to read her letter, second from the top) ... In the immortal words of Regis Philbin: Phone a friend. This is some of the best advice for most difficult situations.

There is a prerequisite for that advice, however. You must have a friend on the other end of that life line. For military spouses, reaching out and cultivating friendships at every assignment should be a priority.

"The best time to make friends is before you need them." -- Ethel Barrymore

Add your words of wisdom here ...