Here is to the class of 83!

Friends Forever... No matter what distance is between us!

As I mentioned in yesterday's blog... I took some time off from writing and part of that time was spent with Family and Friends and in particular my 30 year High School Reunion.

It could have easily been my one year or one month reunion as some of the people I got to see I picked up conversations again with as if we barely left the halls of Lakeview High. More on this for a later blog.

I found it interesting that when it went to the 5, 10 or even the 20 year reunion, I may have had a little anxious feeling when going back to see friends. What would I tell them about myself? What had I accomplished? What were the successes of my life that I would share with people? 

At 30 years I was more interested in what they were doing and how happy others were. I met some with only a handshake or a hug, while others I heard stories of good lives lived so far and the joys they have experienced. I honestly think I heard only one story of "success" in terms of financial gain and even that was only a quick, "well I am making a boatload of money finally" but just like high school, I didn't look at these people in any regard to their status in life. I looked at them as friends to share time with and enjoy.

The connection I had and still have with people really stuck out. These were people I shared, for the most part, the better of 4 years time with. Although I didn't go to grade school with any of them, I grew up in the city and they the suburbs of Detroit, we all shared so much in that little 4 year period.

As I look back now and see as a more difficult time, preparation for life on your own, the bonds you make with these souls could easily be compared to the bonds soldiers make when going off to war. Some we will never speak of... only amongst ourselves. Wink! Wink!

I look forward to seeing all these people sooner rather than waiting another 5 or 10 years. As we all approach 50 years of age... time spent together seems much more valuable.

So, here is to the class of 83 Lakeview High School! To the war we survived called growing up! And here is to the joys we shared and will share in years to come!

Health and Happiness!

Bill