This week I quietly celebrated 51 years of life. While I never envisioned myself as middle-aged, I have no problem revealing my age because I view my life as a gift. An adventure. A complete blessing. I wouldn’t change what I’ve experienced during this half century of living because even small changes might threaten the love and gratitude that fills my heart to the brim and hallmarks this birthday.
Is mine a perfect life? Certainly not. In my perfect world my dad would be alive and I could have wrapped my arms around his neck, thanking him for loving me. My mom would be pain free and hopping on a plane to watch my son graduate from high school this June. All three of my children would be living independently but close enough to spend time with me on a weekly basis. My rescued chihuahua would not frantically bark in sheer panic each time a man enters the room. Zak and Mike would have not have lost their jobs to a poor economy and the neighboring property would not be a foreclosure.
Our 20-year-old house would be updated and I’d be 20 pounds. lighter. My garden would be slug free and my planters would resemble those featured in Better Homes and Gardens. I’d love daily exercise and wouldn’t wake in the middle of the night feeling as if I were sleeping in an oven. God would answer the cries of my heart quickly and with complete clarity. My friends who have cancer would not have to undergo long and painful treatments to overcome their diseases.
In spite of and because of these matters that bring sorrow and worry to my heart, life is as good as it is. The grand babies born to my friends are ever more precious than imagined. The power of God is witnessed in the buds on my fruit trees and the thousand shades of green that surround us here on Whidbey Island. I see Him each time my husband revels in a career that captures his imagination and energies. I’m enticed by God’s timing as I watch my children make school, life, and career choices that fall in line with their passions and gifts.
Mary is cancer free! Bill and Rose Ann are enjoying a cruise! Ryan has a pair of new lungs! Nancy is healing from her back surgery. Sam is learning she is intelligent and worthy to be loved.
I watch in fascination and joy is my gift.
Hey, this is Dan Klope and my mom has written “Faithful Living” for 16 years. She’s told a lot of stories about me and my family and it’s been pretty cool.
I’m about to graduate from OHHS, but first there is the matter of attending our prom on May 22 and I need a date.
After careful consideration, I’m thinking of a girl who is pretty, full of personality, and fun to be around.
I know she reads this column each week. So…
Kaylen Scott
Will You Go to Prom With Me?
