Reunion Reflections

My 35th CGA reunion was filled with immense emotions of joy, wonder, and nostalgia.  As I saw cadets walk about campus, I could vividly recall, if only for a fleeting moment, those deep feelings of life at the Academy, a young adult struggling to find a path and make sense of the world. I ridiculously imagined that I might encounter a younger version of myself. If I only knew then, what I know now. My younger self buried his emotions; while today I embrace them, both the good and the bad, because they are equally an essential part of who I am.

A reunion is not only a time to relive old memories, but also a chance to build new connections. 

My greatest treasure attending the reunion is a deep sense of unconditional acceptance. There are no squabbles, career jealousy, or division – we are classmates.  We started together, we endured. Some climbed the ranks, others exited quickly, but the adversity bonded us together.

Each day I feel moments of tears and angst, but also of inspiration and awe.  At the reunion, these feelings were multiplied 100 fold. I must have given 500 hugs and silently shed a hundred tears.

Old photos on Eagle brought joy, playing spoons in the 1/c workroom. From then.... to now, sailing aboard Matt and Tori's BANTER.

Reunion

I'm waiting at the airport for my flight to the East Coast. Perhaps 40 classmates are coming. Charlie created a group photo album. Dozens of photos over decades. Those who stayed in and were stationed at large ports, there are countless gatherings and celebrations. The reunion schedule is full. I'll visit John Wolf on Thursday, followed by the athletics awards dinner. Sailing with Matt on Friday, then a cocktail party. Saturday is a fun run, tailgate party, walk on, football game, and dinner. Sunday is bagels, then a flight home. 

The academy was a special time, a unique experience. Retirement is a special time too, an opportunity to evaluate next steps and new adventures. 

As I reflect on my life decisions, I sometimes ponder if I knew then, what I know now, what would I have done differently. The emotional walls of my youth served as protection, whereas now I embrace both my tears and sense of awe. My passionate belief in love in my youth, whereas now a more tempered approach in building commitment and connection. And, the over arching view to save for the future when I was young; now a shift toward abundance, thanks to NVDA.