Inspiration

Life is an amazing journey...I am a true believer in the idea that the trip is sometimes more rewarding than arriving at the destination. If you view the world through the lens of accomplishment, it is often easy to forget the exquisite details of the voyage. I like to take a little time, every now and then, to reflect on the people, events and things that make life, the pearl that it is.

Last weekend, my oldest child...not really a child anymore, married the love of his life! Chris and his wife find an inexplicable joy in each others company. They have a smile, you couldn't wipe off, with fine polishing rag. They chose an incredible way to celebrate their vows. They threw a Halloween party, at a historic Church, invited friends and family, and then announced to the room their intention to marry! It was an amazing ceremony, and a great way to start a life together. I may never see it, but I can imagine them explaining to their children the wonderful way they became husband and wife! You have an excellent beginning...my advice to them, is to continue enjoying every day of the journey!

My daughter is almost nine-teen, independent, and very self reliant. Sometime soon, she will be packing a few of her things, and making her way to Texas, to enter basic training for the United States Air Force. She trains on a regular basis, to be as fit, and ready for her adventure as she can. Kendall has a heart bigger than the state she will travel to...and a personality that is infectious. She can make you smile, laugh, and cry, all at the same time. Her joy for life and energy for facing challenges will serve her well. My fatherly advice...no matter how difficult things may seem...keep your faith, and enjoy the journey!

My wife and I grew up in a different time, and in families that faced some challenges, and adversity. We have a strong appreciation for where we are in life. We are more aware of how cruel the world can be. Perhaps that explains why we raised our children in more stable circumstances, in a home with less uncertainty, and hopefully with a strong imprint for the value of family. We remember good times, and the tough ones, but always together...we were stronger than we thought. WE make time to celebrate the journey..and we hope our children will too!

Every day, through the work, the relationships, and the challenges of life, we are sometimes tricked, into missing the moments, that are quickly gone too soon. I'm writing this to share, but it is also a reminder to myself, that each day is a journey... while traveling,be careful not to miss the trip of your lifetime!