Thought for the day - soon to be 45

Sometimes it's nearly impossible not to compare yourself to other people.  At least, that is the case for me.  I'm learning, though, to incorporate these comparisons into building a foundation for myself from which to grow.  Other people's circumstances are out of my control, naturally, so I take these comparisons and simply enjoy them and see what I can add to my life.  It may sound silly, but in my head it makes sense!

Recently I brought to my own attention the fact that I'm going to be 45 on my next birthday.  Somehow it does not seem possible to me.  Nothing wrong with being middle aged, but so many times I still see myself as a young man full of hopes and dreams, constantly losing my way on my journey and wondering what I will be when I grow up.  I do believe that we never truly stop growing up until we draw our last breaths, so I'm still good in that department.  Anyway, I've been thinking back to some of my family and it's interesting for me to see where they were when they were my age.

When Dad was 45, in 1985, he had been married for 17 years.  He had a 5th grader and a freshman in high school.  He had multiple degrees and certificates and worked full time at the Union County Mental Health Clinic. 

When Mom was 45, in 1989, she had been married for 21 years.  She had a freshman in high school and a freshman in college.  After many jobs throughout the years, she began work as Director of Crisis Assistance Ministries for United Way of Monroe.

When Grandmother was 45, in 1954, she had been married for 21 years.  She had a 15 year old son and a 10 year old daughter.  She taught private kindergarten with Deane Baucom.

When my Great Grandmother was 45, in 1912, she had been married for 28 years.  She had 7 children, 2 of which had died, ranging from age 3 to 26.  Her 2 eldest children, both girls, were married, but no grandchildren yet. 

To me, they achieved a lot by the times they were 45.  I'm very impressed and inspired by what they did.  I will make some achievements coming year of my life.  I'm not sure what those will be, but there definitely will be present!  I want to add to my lifeline so that I can look back and say that I did something when I was 45.  I'm excited to see where this part of my journey takes me!

That is all