When I was Young

When I was young, I took my parents love for granted.  I never realized how special that was.  How many children live without parents.  

When I was young, I could be mean at times.  I never realized how words could bring such pain to someone else.

When I was young, I was scared of homeless people.  I never recognized the compassion in their eyes and the hope in their face that perhaps one day, life will change.

When I was young, I saved all my money for a new toy, or clothes or something for me.  I never realized the importance of giving to others.

When I was young, I argued with my siblings.  I never realized the affect they would have on my life and how much they truly mean to me.

When I was young, I would argue with my parents.  I never realized that they were just trying their best, learning along the way, and how much it hurt them to get me in trouble.

When I was young, I was insecure.  I never realized that so was everyone else.  

When I was young, I wanted to have a fairy tale wedding.  I never realized that a wedding is different than a marriage and how hard it would be.  I never realized it would also be better than I ever imagined.

When I was young, I couldn't wait to be a mommy.  I never realized that you could love something as much as you love your children.  I never realized the power of this gift.

When I was young, I had no responsibility.  I never realized how responsibility changes you, shapes you and makes you who you are.

When I was young, I broke up with boyfriends.  I never realized how insensitive I was.  I never realized it could have been handled better.

When I was young, I thought I was always right.  I never realized that my stubbornness had a negative impact on relationships.  I never realized that working together, as a team, brings greater joy than ever being right.

When I was young, I thought I had my life all planned out.  I never realized that not knowing is what makes this life so great.

When I was young, I took my Grandparents for granted.  I never realized the importance of them living a full life filled with so many experiences.  I never realized their knowledge would mean so much to me.

When I was young, I took my faith for granted.  I never realized that I would come to depend solely on my faith to travel through life.

When I was young, I was afraid of getting old.  I never realized the gift of living a long life.

When I was young, I feared the day I had grey hairs and wrinkles.  I never realized that grey hairs and wrinkles come with experiences, celebrations and memories.

Is getting older and aging really as negative as it is sometimes perceived?  Personally, I am a much better person today than I ever was when I was young.