Tate Class Reunion -Father Time and Mother Nature

Time can be cruel or it can be kind.  It is the ruler we have to measure life with on many levels. This "many years" have passed since an event. We worked at a company for x number of years, our children and grandchildren are x years old.  Why this subject ?

I was invited to a class reunion by a friend who grew up with members of  theTate High  class of 78. I have enjoyed living with her during my time in Pensacola. She breeds dogs, sings, cooks and is an all-round talented person.Much more than myself. Did I mention working on her advanced degree? Her high school days were full of activities as well.  

The event was held on the beach at the Caribbean bar Castaways. A perfect location with the full moon glowing on the water. A hand written sign complete with arrow pointed Tate High Class reunion upstairs. We walked into a large room ruled by Father Time and Mother Nature. Reality bitch slapped me in the face.The questions started in my mind.... Where did all these old people come from?  When did I get older?  How did this happen?  We look like our parents! My older wallflower self snuggled into a chair armed with a diet coke.

 After several conversations with people from years gone by, I gathered we all have a story. Some good, some bad but all relevant to the world.  Success is defined by only one factor, your idea of it. It is not about money, size of a house, or what car you drive. It is defined by who you are as a person. 

Social media played a big part of the conversations. Promises of catching up, becoming facebook friends and rekindled friendships filled the room. Who would have thought years ago technology would be a defining part of our world? We all  recall the 8 track era along with Urban Cowboy bull riding.

Some childhoods have skeletons, mine had a graveyard.There was one person growing up I could trust.We traded skeletons and buried many over time. Together we hold secrets that will never be exposed.  The care taker of my small soul for many years attended the reunion in a different form. His photo was on the memorial table with a white candle and name plate. He chose to leave this life early over 20 years ago. Did I feel his presence? No, he is gone. Off to a new adventure in a world we have not yet been allowed to see.

There was one teacher attending, only one. I admired her dress, grace, and “coolness” she exhibited years ago. She was the fashion diva in farmland, always treating students with respect and a smile. Thirty years later, she is still loved by all.  Yep, I still want to grow up to be Ms. Taylor who was rocking a beautiful turquoise necklace.

 I  enjoyed the event and hope to see everyone next time. My wish is for all ..May Father Time and Mother Nature be kind to all of us.