Milestones
Last weekend we went to a birthday party for the teenage daughter of one of our friends. We met these friends in Guam 15 or so years ago. Since we are all now in the NJ/NY area, we try to get together as much as we can. Our children are all good friends. It was just really surprising to realize that the birthday girl was already 14. We’ve all known her since she was a baby.
As adults, we tend to be jaded in our birthday celebrations—I think that it is because we would like to forget that we are another year "wiser". From the adult perspective, nothing really marks the passage of time quite like these "children’s" birthday parties. Their age is directly correlated to ours–they get older, we get older. I think that every year that a child celebrates their birthdays, we are hit with a sense of accomplishment and pride in knowing that we are a part of the formation of this young person’s life. It is fascinating to see the growth—physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually of these young people from year to year.
It was like only yesterday when we were celebrating the Baptism of these kids, now our conversations are about the colleges that they are thinking of applying to. Before we know it, we will soon be going to the weddings of these children. Not too soon, I hope—they still have a lot to accomplish. : )
While the kids were playing, the adults were catching up on all the latest events. One of the questions that was raised was, "When you were young, what did you want to be when you grow up?". There was a wide range of answers varying from a priest to a chemist. For me, that was an easy one to answer—I wanted to be a lawyer. This dream never came to fruition because I to took a detour on the road of life that never could quite lead me back onto my original path. : )
Another question that arose was "What would you like to be now?". This one required introspection. My answer—I am where I would like to be. I have a wonderful life. I have no worries—I can do what I like, when I like (all within reason, of course).
My life is quite perfect as it is now. I’m happily married for over 16 years and I have two very beautiful daughters. What more can I ask for? I have a husband and children whom I love very much and who love me, as well. I am living the happily ever after that many people dream of. : )
Until next time. Take care.
