Homecoming
Yesterday I attended my college homecoming and had the opportunity to see many faces from the past. Some I remembered, others I did not. All in all it was a good day. The sun shined brightly and the air was brisk. Mekhi and I were able to spend time with my two best friends and their children. All was lovely in Cutie Booty World.
Real friends and former students of mine wrapped me in a warm cocoon of fond memories. Had I been alone, I would have stayed much longer. But the sheer enjoyment of tailgating at a super deluxe RV, margarita in hand (make that two), was enough to keep me covered in happiness for a long time.
My one friend and I laughed when we saw the childless women teetering on thin heels - memories of those days long gone made us chuckle. Despite wearing loafers my feet are still blistered. I can't even image trying to wear heels and walk around for hours anymore.
A brief moment of enlightenment occurred when I saw someone that was once a friend but became an enemy. Despite past hurt I sucked up my pride and approached. I believe that forgiveness is best served unconditionally and until you are able to do it leave it and the offending party alone. While speaking with him I came to the realization that for some people it is better to fake amnesia then to deal with the consequences (self-imposed) of their actions.
In my younger years I would have called him on it but instead simply smiled and feigned my own amnesia. I realize that this was his way of dealing with painful memories. And if this makes him sleep better at night who am I to bring up the past? Seeing my face was enough to do that.
Apprehension about moments like that one kept me on the fence all morning about going to homecoming but I am glad I did. I was able to see old friends and deal with past demons, exhibiting my maturity in actions and gray hair. What more could you ask for on a lovely fall day? In my book it was perfect and symbolic of my personal growth over the past ten or so years. I plan on being at homecoming again next year. Perhaps next time I will grow even more.
Real friends and former students of mine wrapped me in a warm cocoon of fond memories. Had I been alone, I would have stayed much longer. But the sheer enjoyment of tailgating at a super deluxe RV, margarita in hand (make that two), was enough to keep me covered in happiness for a long time.
My one friend and I laughed when we saw the childless women teetering on thin heels - memories of those days long gone made us chuckle. Despite wearing loafers my feet are still blistered. I can't even image trying to wear heels and walk around for hours anymore.
A brief moment of enlightenment occurred when I saw someone that was once a friend but became an enemy. Despite past hurt I sucked up my pride and approached. I believe that forgiveness is best served unconditionally and until you are able to do it leave it and the offending party alone. While speaking with him I came to the realization that for some people it is better to fake amnesia then to deal with the consequences (self-imposed) of their actions.
In my younger years I would have called him on it but instead simply smiled and feigned my own amnesia. I realize that this was his way of dealing with painful memories. And if this makes him sleep better at night who am I to bring up the past? Seeing my face was enough to do that.
Apprehension about moments like that one kept me on the fence all morning about going to homecoming but I am glad I did. I was able to see old friends and deal with past demons, exhibiting my maturity in actions and gray hair. What more could you ask for on a lovely fall day? In my book it was perfect and symbolic of my personal growth over the past ten or so years. I plan on being at homecoming again next year. Perhaps next time I will grow even more.
Comments
I could learn from you, CBC!
Isn't the maturity life brings amazing?
We really can become wiser as we get older huh =).
BTW--what gray hair? =)
so glad you enjoyed yourself and was able to realize growth in the process. :-)
BTW you've been tagged @ my blog :)