It was a time of innocence
before mortgages, family responsibilities,
assorted bills, time constraints,
and lost youth.

Care free days
little real stress
49 cents a gallon gas
and fun on most horizons.

Who would’ve thought
we’d be concerned about
401k plans, college for our children,
job security, and retirement?

We had boundless energy
shared endless laughter
this was before the real world
held us truly accountable.

There was little “small stuff” to sweat
life was good
every day was an adventure
as we created the memories we cherish today.

We were
baby faced kids
entering into a world
we thought we could change.

Maybe we changed the world?
surely most of us have changed
we’re older, hopefully wiser
yet still contributing in positive ways.

As I reflect upon
all those years ago
I know I’m better for it
and grateful to you all.

Reflections
of an era gone by
enduring friendships
and lasting memories.