I've been reconnecting with old friends from high school lately. Some of us have been catching up online, exchanging the facts about our lives. Married? Kids? Job? Where? Sending out photos of our children and spouses, and of our own faces.I've also met up with some old friends in person. I've enjoyed it so much. And I don't even get very nervous about it. I think that's because I really just want to show off my kids. See what I did? See?!
What I'm finding I like most about these visits, however, is the sense of familiarity I feel. After all, I spent years and years with these people, days upon days noticing all sorts of small details in their appearance, mannerisms, and personalities. There is something so comforting in that knowing. Everyone changes, but some things remain the same.
I like that we already know each other. We got over all that first meeting jittery-ness a long time back. Now it's just pick up where we left off, even if that was nearly 20 years ago. Then, we can get to know each other as our older, perhaps wiser, versions of ourselves. Some of the old labels have become misplaced, or simply fallen off and left behind. I think about listing my accomplishments: college degrees, travel, jobs. And before I start feeling a little unaccomplished, I remember that getting the dishes done today before we ran out of plates was quite an accomplishment for me, in my life, right now. That, and my 2 darling children. See?!
I like it when we get past the reminiscing and the updating about all we have heard about everyone else. I like it when we start to converse in real time. That's when we start to really see each other. And the connection is refreshed.
And I really like it when my old friends say to me, "You look just the same."
(Photo is of me, age 15.)
Sara, you went from an intelligent, creative and caring kid to an intelligent, creative and caring adult and mom! I'm not surprised AT ALL! I feel honored to have known you for so many years, and I am thankful for your friendship. Then, and now.
ReplyDeleteLove, Angela
I love this Sara! People I have connected with from so long ago has been amazing. It is like we just left off. Even people who I felt like I had a falling out with, but do not have any recollection why, I have connected with. It's so fun to see where different people were led in their lives. I LOVE the picture of you above because that took me back to high school. That's how I remember you (but yet, you do still look the same :) You always were, and continue to be a sweetheart!
ReplyDeletexoxo,
Emily
I echo Angela's comments. I so cherish our reconnection. I feel we are of the same cloth. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteBig hugs,
Jacki
P.S. We'll be your way soon. Gotta see those Monarchs!
Thanks for the post. I too, need to remember that a day gotten through is sometimes a HUGE accomplishment. And you do look just the same. Well, maybe a little more beautiful. As though you have grown into yourself.
ReplyDeleteStefan and I have talked about how thanks to status update via social networking we already know what everyone's been up to (and we've seeen the pictures ) that we can connect on a deeper level faster.
ReplyDelete