What Compels Us Is A Beautiful Thing

Sorry its been a while since I've been able to blog. I feel as if I've disappointed all of you. *gives sad puppy dog eyes* Life is life and while we run to catch up with it, sometimes we forget where we are from and where we are.

This Labor Day weekend I was invited to a party in my hometown of Granby, Mass. There were people there I haven't seen in years and some that I didn't even recognized. I have to say my mind reeled the night before this get-together so I had a lack of sleep for the event. Nerves jingled and danced from the tips of my toes to my head where they made me dizzy. When I left that town 16 years ago life was much different and a little bleaker. I hadn't met my husband yet, there were no children in our lives, and 'The Real World' was a reality show that never really depicted what life after high school was actually about.

Back then I was strong in my beliefs. Not that I'm not now, its just with age and wisdom you tend to listen a little more carefully and judge a little less swiftly. Being voted most outspoken in the class was a sense of pride to me. I wasn't afraid to say what was on my mind or be the one who had to say it first. Another trait I now think twice about when I want to react strongly to something. My husband calls me "a troublemaker in a good way". Not sure if that's a compliment or not. LOL

So, here I am 16 years later with classmates who remember the girl who stood her ground, fought for independence, and spoke loud and passionately about her's and others rights. Hope nobody was disappointed by the wallflower that appeared before them. I still am and do all those things, but now I'm a little quieter about it. One of the women at this shindig said to me that the only thing she does is stay at home with her children. I was appalled! (Hold on don't jump to conclusions!) I stared her straight in the eye and told her she has one of the most important jobs a person could have on this earth. Working with children, raising children, and being an example for children is not something that should be undervalued. Be proud! You're teaching the future and what they learn from us will be passed on to their children. She firmly agreed with me.

There was also a gentleman there named, Jeff. Oh, now there was a troublemaker if I ever knew one. He'll admit it so I can say that with true affection for him. This is a man who changed his life around for the children afflicted with HIV/Aids. He works tirelessly giving to his passion to make these beautiful angels better. I was amazed and in awe how he spoke about 'his kids'. I don't know if he even realizes how much enthusiasm poured out of him when we talked about the three weeks he spent in California at an HIV/Aids camp.

I once read that people come into our lives for reasons unbeknown to us. They teach us to either be stronger/weaker or smarter/blinder. Some spark us to do more with our time and beliefs. Where would I be today if my high school Principle decided that the fuzzy red-head with strong views and a knack for getting into trouble wasn't worth his time to guide in the right direction? I don't want to know, but because of him I have showed my children and others, standing up for what compels you is a beautiful thing despite the controversy it may cause.

I believe Toby Kieth said it perfectly, Love Me If You Can