Some Things Are Definitely Worth The Wait

I have wanted a sister as far back as I remember.  I always envied the bonds shared between them, and even the competition.  I grew up as the oldest child and only girl, with two younger brothers.   Even the children that were close in age on my father’s side were all male.  After the age of six, the appeal of playing army and crashing matchbox cars looses the appeal.  Of course, as I mentioned in an earlier blog, in the very early 1960’s gender identity was defined even in Golden Books.  I had my dolls, blackboard, and all the essential pretend kitchen components….all the things girls should be interested in.  What I was lacking was someone to play with twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.

As a child, I was so jealous of the cousins who had older sisters to pave the way and teach them all the tricks.  I longed to share even the knock-down drag out fist fights that scared the living daylights out of me while they were taking place.  I was lucky enough to have had three female cousins a year older than I on my mother’s side.  Even more fortunate was the fact that my mother saw fit to allow us to spend ample time together.

I did not, however, truly understand the connection between sisters until very recently.  My brother married in October of last year, and I decided long before that I would not have a sister –in-law, but a real sister.  The privilege of spending time with my new sister in the days prior to her wedding and helping with little tasks here and there, was wonderful.  Just *knowing* what had to be done and doing it, with no need for words.  Talking, and laughing and getting to know one another was wonderful.  Gentle feedback and reassurances regarding wardrobe and such were exchanged, and as I zipped up her wedding gown, I was confident that my brother could not have found me a better sister.

Events of the past months have called for the further development of that bond…one that will never be severed.  It is an indestructible force that sincerely celebrates small accomplishments of the other, and experiences the sorrows as well.

After forty-six years, I can honestly say this was most definitely worth the wait.

  

The Point Where Leadership and Servitude Merge

When I consider the greatest leaders of our time, people the likes of the Dalai Lama, Ronald Reagan, Buhda, Jesus and Mother Theresa just to name a few, the one common thread they all possess is a knowledge of how to truly serve others.

Last night, I thought I had this blog signed, sealed and ready to be delivered…however…one of those unexpected little miracles popped up, and it all changed.  I received an e-mail which changed the blog, but it very well may have been a turning point in my life.

Randy Pausch is a name you should recognize.  It belongs grouped with those I mentioned above.  It is a name you should revere and what is more a philosophy you should adopt.  If you have not seen this video…watch it.  Google it, and for heaven’s sake really pay attention.  He defines success, opens his greatest and most personal battle to the world, not for sympathy, but out of love.  The video was made for three people who are not old enough to comprehend messages of humility, determination, servitude, faith, hope, laughter and love.  It speaks of priorities, of energy, of fun.  Fun is very important.  I loved my most recent lesson in fun so much I up and left my home and ventured out and away with not much more than a dream.

Over the past two years, I decided that what I do has to make a difference.  This is why I write.  Life experience and succes are wonderful things, but they are just things unless you can pass them along.

I spent 40 years being petrified of riding a roller coaster.  I never knew the thrill of a zero gravity loop, g-force speed, or letting out a primal scream.  Most importantly, I had begun to live such a “safe” life.  I worked and went home and took care of my child.  There was no laughter, no deviation from routine.  I was stuck.

To make a long story short, I rode a roller coaster, albeit against my better judgment.

Have your fears, but do not let them paralyze you, you will miss out on the best part of life!

Set up your five year plan, AA, BA, BMW…but along the way use the wisdom of the soul.  There is so much more to life.  Learn to serve others and yourself well.  You’ll be suprised of the success you attain along the way.