I wish I had known back then . . .

It’s that time of year when school reunions are being held. That leads to alumni “creeping” Facebook pictures to remind ourselves of our classmates and the good times.

A couple of years ago I uploaded pictures of my childhood. Among them were a couple of group pictures of school classes and Vacation Bible Schools.

Over the last few days, people have been commenting on those pictures and naming some of the children. That has lead to comments to each other.

One of the comments I received today was something I would have appreciated knowing when I was a child/teenager. I won’t share that comment here, but I definitely did not know anyone had ever thought that way about me!

I did not have any feeling of worth or self-confidence - or very little.  I don’t think it was anyone’s fault; I doubt they knew I felt that way because I rarely talked about myself. But I felt invisible. I now realize there was no need to feel that way, but I did. I guess because of that I have tried very hard to instill positive attitudes in my own children and grandchildren. I am very proud of the way they are taking the world by the tail and accomplishing something worthwhile with their lives. I’m sorry to say I don’t tell them enough. I hope to change that.  (To my family - if you are reading this, please know how much I love you and admire you!)

Back when I was young, females did not have many options. I only aspired to work as a secretary until I got married and had children, and that’s exactly what I did. The other choices were teacher or nurse.

My daughter has a very good work ethic and has made a name for herself in the public arena of politics, along with bringing up two daughters and a son. Her husband is very supportive of her endeavors. I admire him, too.

My son also has a good work ethic and has “climbed the ladder,” succeeding in his chosen field and has guided two girls into womanhood. He is a very responsible person (although I often wondered in his youth whether he would be or not. LOL)

So, my advice today is tell people, especially young people, how much you admire them, even if it is only the fact that they are in your life. There’s got to be something about them you admire.  TELL THEM!

Until next time . . .