I am so looking forward to my 40th Class Reunion, for Palm Beach High School Class of 1970. Many times we see sitcoms portray reunions as a cheesy awkward gathering where the petty childishness of the past rises up within the participants. Well, I have been involved in all of our past reunions over the years, however never experienced anything but a great time. All the social hierarchy has faded away and the awkwardness of our teens have metamorphosed into amazing beautiful people....But I am not speaking of physical beauty, but internal compassionate, spiritual beauty. Whether you have become a doctor, clerical worker or pump septic tanks, our lives have evolved and many have become wonderful compassionate humanitarians, volunteers or such ministering to the needs of others, protecting our quality of life and defending our country.
In the last year I have become an avid friend on Facebook. It has given me the opportunity to reacquaint with former classmates. We share our lives; the joys and disappointments, pictures of our families and achievements, exchanges words of encouragement or a prayer when needed.
My girls are grown, Jeannine 38, travels with Wade Shows, an amusement company. We see her once a year when the South Florida Fair is open. Mariana 34 owns a beautiful home in Boynton, has a BA from FAU and works as a Legal Assistant. I am raising my granddaughter Carrie 17, who reminds me daily how many days till she turns 18 and is free to move on to pursue her future. Before long I will be experiencing the affects of the empty nest. I am not particularly excited about being alone. I am not a cat person; actually I do not have any animals anymore due to my health issues, so I can't find companionship there. I have however, found comfort as I reconnected with former classmates, church members who have moved away and long lost childhood friends via Facebook. Expanding my horizons beyond the four walls and building a new but familiar social network as I enter this new phase of my life. Old friends can be new found treasures and I encourage everyone reading this to reach out and consider this adventure as well.
