How Did It Get So Late So Soon?

Dr. Seuss was quoted saying "How did it get so late so soon?" This could not possibly describe my life any better. Where in the world did the time go? Two and a half years ago I was starting my first semester of college. A week from today, I’ll be half way through my junior year. For the last two weeks, I’ve been worried about all of the stuff I had due this week and all I still need to do before finals. Fast forward a week and a half and I’ll be back at work and I’m already anticipating the stress that will follow. I’m worried about graduating in May of 2016. I’m terrified to go to grad school because that will bring along so many scary yet exciting challenges. I worry about my future in terms of relationships and family. I’m terrified to end up alone. I almost always focus on tomorrow or the next day or 5 years from now.

While looking at my calendar to make plans for next week, I realized the date. Tomorrow will be December 4^th. December 4^th, 2014. 

To some, it’s just your average Thursday. To me, it’s so much more than that. 4 months ago tomorrow means 4 months without Jennifer. 4 long, hard months and so many more to go. 4 months ago, I didn’t think I’d make it through this semester. 4 months ago, I didn’t think I’d make it through the week. 4 life changing months. There are so many things that would be different if she was still here. Our room would probably be a lot cleaner than it is now. I would nap a lot more. There would inevitably be some sort of spice smell in the air. I would give anything to go back to Spring Break last year and relive all of the fun we had in Georgia. I'm so thankful for all of those memories.

Tomorrow also marks 8 years without my grandpa, one of the most amazing men I’ve ever known. Grandpa taught me countless important things:

·       How to use a nail gun

·       How to put up wallpaper

·       The importance of not touching electrical wires when you’re unsure if they’re live or not

·       Just because you own a car doesn’t mean you know how to fix one

·       Always honk when exiting an alley

·       Go to church even if you’re in the pew alone

·       Egg sandwiches always make for a quality breakfast

·       Paint thinner removes tar

·       Maybe Jerry Springer isn’t the best show for young children

·       Always have a sense of humor

·       Even in your final months, it’s acceptable to run around the house attempting to dance at 2:30 in the morning

Grandpa was truly an amazing person and I couldn’t imagine him not having been part of my life. My grandpa loved his family more than anything and is still such an inspiration to me. Miss you, Pap.

So, the next time you’re freaking out about things that are supposed to happen 5 days, months, years from now, take a moment to think about right now. People always say “life is short” and most of us don’t believe that until it’s over. You may live to be 21, 68, or 105. You never know. Stop worrying about the future. Focus on what you’re doing right now. And, be thankful for the time you’ve been given.

Smile always,

e.