Twenty-Five years ago, my husband and I were sitting in the waiting room at Arlington Hospital, anxiously awaiting his arrival. My husband, grew impatient, left to feed our dog, thinking that Greg's birth mother would remain in labor for several more hours. A few minutes later, much to everyone's surprise he came forth, much earlier than expected. Suddenly like a wave, he arrived, and I was flooded with emotion as I became a Mom for the first time.
As I walked further, I continued to reflect on the last 25 years and what a joy and pleasure it has been to watch Greg grow. While Greg, my oldest, is celebrating his 25th birthday, I am celebrating his life. It is no accident, that I soon find two sand dollars on the shoreline. These I pick up with joy, knowing that I will be giving them to him and his bride to be in the next few weeks. Today, I am enjoying the gifts of time, wisdom and reflection. Today, I am empowered to see new possibilities all around me. While, 25 years ago, I thought my life was complete, I know now it was just beginning. Little did I know then, that life would never be the same again and that my individualized empowerment plan was in the making.
It seems like only yesterday, that we brought him home and called him our Gift from God. To read more about how his life with us began, please read http://www.believeinarayofhope.com/success-storieshttp://www.believeinarayofhope.com/success-stories
He began as a miracle from God and even today, he keeps me on my toes, keeps me guessing, and keeps me inspired.
Today, Greg lives in a rural community, works as a Chef in an Organic Restaurant, and he and his bride to be have bought their first home. He still walks to the beat of his own drum and continues to surprise us. Over Thanksgiving, we found ourselves happily forgoing a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner at home, to help he and Christy in moving from their farm house to their own home. Truly, life holds many surprises!
Growing up in Northern VA, I would never have guessed that his interest would take him down this road. As he was growing up, we made sure that he had the opportunity to play baseball, football, and soccer. We provided tae kwon do and piano lessons. Each time, we were sure he would want to pursue one of these pastimes on a deeper level and each time we were wrong.
While he enjoyed each extracurricular activity, when he entered high school, he surprised us and went out for Lacrosse. We wondered where the inspiration had come from. When he moved to Christiansburg, after pursuing college life, he happily reported that he loved the slower pace and the country life and I wondered where this fascination had developed.
As I looked through old photographs, a sudden understanding emerged. I came upon a few pictures that both surprised and delighted me. When he was little, we enjoyed taking him to the Reston Petting Zoo. We introduced him to horses, goats and chickens. Looking at the pictures now, I can see now how his early fascination began.
As we begin a new year, I encourage you to think about the memories you are making. I encourage you to take time to reflect. I encourage you to enjoy your discoveries, your loved ones, and every day miracles!
