Speed Limit - 30
Today marks the end of an era. An era of youth, vitality, and carefree playfulness.
Well, not exactly. For me it seems like some of those things were lost many years ago. They’re things I’ll be able to sit back in my rocker with a grandchild on each knee and tell them stories about the days of yesteryear.
Many things are different today than they were yesterday. I’ve gained a few pounds, slowed just a bit, most of my hair has packed up and relocated to more unnecessary places, and I find myself falling asleep in the chair quite often in the evenings while watching TV.
All of these things are signs of age. But time hasn’t just served me up bad things. It’s given me things to be thankful for and to have fond memories of. Today marks my 30th birthday. Yes, 30 years ago today I popped out into this world. With nothing but time in front of me I moved out to start my journey.
Now that time has passed and I have measurable amount of time behind me, it makes me stop and think about what I want from the time still ahead. I’ve enjoyed so many things over the last few years that give me insight into what I may want from the future.
As many of you know I’ve gained a great passion over the last couple of years for photography. I completely see myself making more of a career out of that in the years to come. I have such a passion for learning photography and pushing myself to do more. I can’t wait to see what time has in store for me behind the lens.
I’ve been graced with 2 wonderful children that never cease to amaze me with their ambition and wit. Both have served to make me older in some ways and to remind me of and return me to youth. I hold out such high hopes for both of them. I know if they stay true to themselves they will go far in this world.
I also owe many of the years past to my wonderful wife. I’ve now spent more time in my life with her in it than I have without. I can imagine the day that both of us sit on the front porch in the quiet of the evening, talking about the 50 years that have passed. She means the world to me and I cherish every day I have to look forward to the next with her.
I’m also surrounded by so many friends and family that support me in whatever I do day after day. Some days I’m sure they would rather do without me, but they always come back to help me though life. I look forward to knowing a lot of you much better and getting even closer to the ones I already know so well.
So, here’s to stepping on the gas and speeding just a little. I’ve always dreaded the day my 30th birthday came, but now that it’s here, I think it’s time to make the most of the long time I have left to come.
May the past guide you, the present ground you, and the future inspire you. Here’s to many more to be with all of you. Thank each and every one of you for all that you have given me. I’m just glad I’m here today to be able to share it with you.
Signed,
The not old yet, but getting there,
Phil
Add comment February 12th, 2008
