How Do I Survive my High School Reunion?
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ”
What really matters? I’ve tried to assist different young people through the years, to receive help in the midst of suicidal thoughts or attempts. Ten years later some of them had trouble even remembering what it was that caused such angst and emptiness, that they were willing to end their lives. For some, it was a relationship that left them in despair. For older adults, the loss of their financial stability and recognition is reason to end one’s life. Perspective is vitally important, so one does not continue to leave such a fatalistic option on the table.
I wish there was a way to show people, during their most painful moments or failures, that those times are often forgotten or placed in a proper perspective by the retirement age. As one realizes that failures should not be catastrophic, the easier it is to focus on our failures as opportunities for learning and growth. As we are able to grow through perceived failures, our worries do not control us as much and we are able to move forward in a positive manner.
As we get older, “getting ahead in life,” isn’t as big a focus. Several years ago, I had a friend go to her thirtieth high school reunion. She said it was wonderful. Her ten-year reunion was awful, because everyone was still posing, bragging, and trying to show everyone else up. By the thirty-year reunion, everyone had relaxed and was beyond trying to impress each other. What was important transformed through the following twenty years.
How we are perceived by others isn’t as important as it used to be. We are valued by how we provide care to those we love, not how we can impress acquaintances. If the person is fortunate enough to have faith, they begin to affirm that the only perception that matters is God’s. Today, think about what really matters to you at your stage of life. How have these things changed through your years of life? Finally, pray for God to guide you to a more-mature level, where the divinely important things are what really matters. Perhaps, God will let you get over the feelings you had at your ten-year reunion!
