I have found that the older I get, the more my past comes into focus and perspective. There are turbulent events that went on in my life years ago. At the time, I would not have been able to explain why certain fiery ordeals ignited and blazed my direction. Years later, with 20/20 hindsight, I can understand just exactly what God was teaching me and how He was helping me grow.
I reflect on the past most of all when my schedule changes, usually when I go away on some trip. Here, in the land of my ancestors, as the history of my people dominates all thoughts, my own personal history becomes proportionately significant.
I was born on December 3, 1953. I used to think a man in his fifties was real old. Now that I have reached such a ripe mature age, I have learned the error of my ways. I know (as most Baby Boomers in denial know) how brand spanking young we all are in our fifties. And when I turn sixty? Well, I’m just glad there will be enough Boomers around for us to reinforce our joint delusion. Those are two key hallmarks of Baby Boomers. There are many of us (thus the name) and we hate growing old.
People who do not like growing old may find solace in the fact that we can become children of God and be kids once again. I chose to be a Christian on October 9th, 1973, as a result of a personal experience with the Spirit of God who revealed Jesus to me. My Dad disowned me for becoming a Christian and kicked me out of the house. Although sad and tragic, God took fantastic care of me. I regret what happened between my dad and I but I will never regret what God did for me or the decision I made for Him.
My dad’s birthday is October 10th. I always knew that. What I never thought about before and what I awakened to yesterday for the first time after being a Christian for thirty-five years, is that my second birth, my spiritual birth, took place one day before my dad’s birthday, just as my physical birth was one day before my mom’s birthday. Why it took me so long to to string together two dates that were already carved in my mind, is a mystery.
I’m not really sure what all this means but it must mean something. Either way, I enjoy thinking about it in the midst of such peace and serenity.
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