We had some neighbors over for dinner last night. Nothing fancy — some snacks, a little salad and some pizza. They have kids, one of whom is The Peanut’s age. After I got the dogs to (mostly) stop barking, we settled the kids in with a movie while we adults talked about life and politics and the craziness of it all right now.
It struck me how we all have so many of the same fears and concerns about so many of the same issues — especially parents these days worrying about how things will be for their kids. Not just our company, but all of us here, too, in varying ways.
Maybe that always sticks out for me now that I’m a mom. But it’s been nagging at me more of late as I watch The Peanut learn and grow, and become more of her own person…a little more independent every day.
I wonder who she will be as she matures. But, more than that lately, what opportunities she will or won’t have based on decisions made for her future by others. Today and in the days ahead.
It’s not new. I’m sure other folks think this about their own kids or relatives, or even about their own lives growing up. I know I did.
But that youthful hope of making the world a better place has faded to a worry that we won’t be able to get things back to the "needs improvement" point. We are so far below the starting line that I’m not certain I see it any longer.
Maybe it’s the melancholy of Fall. The crisp air this morning, coupled with the leaves turning and falling, leaving behind them bare branches and frigid chill to come. I’m feeling my age, and how few days there can be in any one lifetime to make things better for those who follow.
Tell me something cheery this morning. Share a moment of gratitude. Or a laugh. Something kind or caring. Give me some hope. Pull up a chair…
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