So yesterday was my birthday. I woke up trying to remember how to sing the chorus of "I am a Child of God" in spanish. I'm not sure what that was all about- but kind of a weird way to begin the day. I had talked to Miste on the phone the night before and was pondering the fact that if my life were just half over I would live to be 108. Now I am descended from some folks who lived quite long - and in fact, I still have one gramma who just turned 99 the first of November and is going strong (too onery I suspect). But, unless I do some serious fine tuning of my health I'm doubtful that I'll reach that milestone. So, let's just say that that thought has given me pause for reflection. What DO I want to accomplish/do/see in the years ahead?
Several years ago I made a list of about 70 things I wanted to do in my lifetime. I wish I could find that list! I don't think I put it in a special place, but I still have no idea where it went. I'm thinking I might have to use one of the many empty handmade books I have and actually put something in it - namely a list of things I would like to accomplish in my life. The teacher who is right next door to me is teaching a section about dealing with death and one of the things she asked her students to do was to write how they would like to be remembered when they are gone. Then to do an evaluation of the things they are doing right now and if those actions would prompt those kinds of memories in others. I'm thinking about that and I think that rather than just having a list of places to go, and things to do and see - I would like to address some things that aren't quite so superficial. Though I do like superficial stuff - (please refer to my post about tapioca.) Milestones like birthdays give a good opportunity to reflect. So, I'm going to give that some thought.
Now, as far ast the movie picture...Chuck took me out to dinner - Chili's chicken and shrimp fajitas! Yum!!! and then I had wanted to go and see "No Reservations" when it came out but we never got around to it. It was playing at the cheap theater and so we went. We were the only two people there. It was great! We could talk, loll about and sit wherever we wanted. The plot wasn't anything earthshattering or mystical, but I really enjoyed it. I told Chuck it was really nice of him to have arranged a private screening for me on my birthday. I'm sure I'll always remember it.
I've been thinking a lot about gratitude lately and am working on ideas for a post- and how appropriate that it's getting close to Thanksgiving too!
6 comments:
I hope you find your list sometime soon. If not, you should definitely make a new one because now is the time to start crossing things off.
That list is a great idea. I've accomplished a few things in my life that I always wanted to do: military, skydive, child and husband (more than 1 unfortunately) but I should probably look at accomplishing the rest. Thanks for helping us all remember life is short so a list of to-do's is a great idea!
It freaks me out to come to the realization that important people in my life won't be around forever....I think that is a great lesson to teach -that how we want to be remembered will help us to live the life we really want. I also hope you find the list and I look forward to your post about things you are grateful for. I think we all need to take time for reflection no matter our age. Otherwise life just passes us by and we don't really learn and grow as a person without reflection. Or something like that :)
I saw the list. It was right next to a watercolor of an iris? Hope that helps. (he, he, he)
Not sure how you WANT to be remembered, but I think I can speak for most when I tell you that you are thought of as:
generous, kind, funny, thoughtful, intelligent (somewhat overbooked, hence forgetful) supportive, beautiful, infectious (in a good way)fixer, doer, inspiring, forgiving, did I say funny?
This list is a sample, but I think you are off to a good start to whatever you want to be remembered as.
HOpe your birthday was fabulous!!
Wow! Thanks for the lovely sentiments sis! Made me a little misty and I'm afraid you are too generous, but I REALLY appreciate it. I hope to be able to live up those... Oh and thanks for the tip about finding the list. I'm sure that's exactly where I'll find it :0)
Makes me want to revise my "list". My list DOES have alot of travel and superficial things but it also has some meaningful things on it. In the "thinking about how we want to be remembered" arena, even at a young age I can remember thinking that I wanted to be one of those old ladies who's lines on their face were smile lines not frown lines. I can't remember specifically who it was that inspired that thought but it was someone with frown lines. Once in awhile I will look in the mirror and hope I'm seeing smile lines.
I heartily agree with Sister C. All the things I will remember you for are 100% positive. You are an amazing role model. I can only aspire to be half the women you are!
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