How are you feeling today?
It was more than two decades ago but sometimes it feels like yesterday. I remember the feeling of becoming a new father as a mixture of excitement, pride, fear, and wonderment.
In just about 40 more hours, when the clock strikes midnight on January 27th, my little Riley Grace will celebrate her birthday and she’ll be “feeling 22” for the next 365 days.
I’ll be “feeling 22” years older than that amazing day last century when I welcomed my first of two children into this world. I’ve learned a lot over that time and hopefully I’ve become a better father for Riley and her brother Ryan. I also hope I’ve become a better husband, Realtor, speaker, mentor, and anything else I’ve done in that span.
“Like We’re 22”
It was 9 years ago that Taylor Swift released her fourth album called “RED.” The country superstar was on her way to becoming one of the biggest musical talents of our generation and her biographical song “22” detailed her transformation from a young girl into an adult.
I’m beginning to accept the fact that my “young girl” who will graduating from college in a few more months is also now transforming into an adult as well. She’s mature beyond her years so this transformation didn’t just begin but Swift’s lyrics almost seem to be the perfect captions for the memories running through my mind…and I’m guessing could be a soundtrack to Riley’s last few years too.
“This place is too crowded. Too many cool kids. It seems like one of those nights we ditch the whole scene and end up dreaming instead of sleeping.”
And then this line,
“Yeah we’re happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time. It’s miserable and magical, oh yeah.”
How About You?
Do you ever look back in time? Rekindle memories of your youth? Remember advice or support from parents or other loved ones?
Do you ever go back in your mind to your first job out of college? The last career you were in before now? How about thinking of you when you were just a rookie?
Were you “happy, free, lonely, and confused at the same time”?
What about last year? What about last week? I’m guessing if you honestly think about it, there were moments even yesterday that you felt each of those.
That’s the great thing about the idea of “a new day.” There always a chance to write a new song. There are always opportunities to build relationships, solve problems, and have fun.
It could be your birthday or just any other “new day.” Make sure the world can hear you singing and tell everyone that you’re “feeling 22”…or 40…or 53 or whatever you are. Age is just a number, not a feeling.
So let me ask again…How are you feeling today?
Happy Birthday on Wednesday, Riley. Dad loves you!