This year was my 20th reunion, I didn't go. I wish I had, moving on.
Looking through all the pictures posted of the reunion, so many thoughts and
questions ran through my head. Seeing people but not being able to sit down
with them and hear about their lives, I can't help but wonder what they have
experienced, what they have gone through to become who they are today. Would
their stories, be ones of success and dedication, would they be stories of
trial and heartache.
Even further, would they be confident and secure enough in whom they are
now, to share the stories of who they truly were in high school? I know that
when I was in high school, I hid SO MUCH from my peers. We were so, so poor. My
father was an alcoholic, and home life was abusive with strangers and disarray
frequenting my home. Would they understand that is the reason I avoided trying
to make friends? Would they understand, that those who I did let close to me, I
treated with contempt and jealousy when I was concerned about keeping my
secrets safe or abandoning me?
I wonder how many of my classmates stories would have similarities between
me, or amongst them. How many of them like me have changed SO MUCH from who
they were then? How many of them haven't changed at all?
You may wonder why, I would even consider such things, what does it matter?
They truth is, it does matter. The experiences we have in life not only define
you, but they continue to affect you for the rest of your life. I would like to
think that my experiences are not entirely unique. I want to know about the
lives of others, to learn from their experiences, in some cases to share in
experiences I never had.
For me, things are great. My life is fantastic. I have discovered that my
experiences have made me conscious and sympathetic with others situations. It
has made me a better father and husband. I am also willing to help and not
stand idle if I can effect a positive change in the life of another.
Did I realize all my dreams, did I become who I thought I would...not at
all. I did better.
So, what's your story?
UPDATED: My step-father was able to get sober and bygones are bygones. I
have a wonderful relationship with them now and love them dearly.
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