When we are kids, we can’t wait to be adults. We think adulthood is some
magical, mythical world where many joys and freedoms reside. Our immature minds cannot comprehend the responsibility being an adult brings. We are far too self-centered at the time and rightly so, to think past our own wants and
needs. We think 30 is ancient and 50 is prehistoric until time seems to speed by,
and, in a blink of an eye, we find ourselves in our parents’ shoes.
Seemingly shocked and unaware of how time morphed from then till now, so
quickly. How did we go from milk and cookies and afternoon naps on cots with friends to paying bills and stressing over adult decisions? Just yesterday, we were picking the highest number to keep from being “IT” all while scoping
out the nearest hiding spots, not too close to home base to be deemed a
cheater.
We did not cherish the sanctity of ignorance and the bliss of childhood
naivete and innocence. Milk and cookies have been exchanged for wine and
charcuterie boards. We did not understand back then when elders would say,
‘getting older was both a blessing and a curse’ as they mourned the loss of
friends, mates, and lovers.
Yet, as we mature and find ourselves in those proverbial shoes of our
parents, we are forced to see things in a brand-new light. As we deal with the
caring of elderly, frail parents or mourn the loss of them. As we navigate
memories of simpler times while hugging friends/family that we failed to keep
in touch with as we pay respect to others lost. Being an adult with all its
perks and freedoms was a heavy place to be.
We use the examples provided by those that went before us. Finding ourselves
repeating phrases to our children that were once said to us as we rolled our
eyes in arrogant youthfulness. We have tidbits of wisdom and have become the
praying warriors our parents and grandparents were. Dealing with our own
children, we see firsthand why some of our parents talked to God so much.
Time passes quickly, whether or not you want it to. And once time has passed,
you can’t get those moments back. That’s why it’s imperative to capture the
memories. So, take time to create a life and not just create a career. Make
real and lasting connections with those you love and care for. A picture does
not have to be aesthetically perfect, for it to be a perfect picture. It’s the
memories and feelings the picture evokes that make it perfect.
In our society, so much time is invested in preparing our children to be
little adults, instead of pushing them to enjoy their childhood, the innocence
and joy of it. Let them laugh, encourage them to play. Let them explore and
teach them to enjoy every minute, creating special memories from everyday
moments.
Take the time to make the time to connect with friends and family and not
just in line giving respects at a funeral. There aren’t many things guaranteed
in life, but death is one thing we all will one day experience, so make those
moments between the dashes count. Live life and capture every memory.
~Micaiah
MYD Dreams 