During the 50th Reunion dinner we were all invited to reflect on some of the ways we have appreciated being Glacier alum, and some of the wisdom we have acquired in the years since we graduated. Responses were written on note pages that were found on the tables and collected after dinner. It is possible that not all the sheets were collected as the evening drew to a close, but perhaps you’d be interested in a compilation of the responses that were retrieved.
In response to the question, “When you recall your time at Glacier, what are you most grateful for?” The overwhelming number of responses indicated that we are grateful for friends, some that have become life-long, and others that we were glad to see again after many years. There were also a number of responses expressing gratitude for the quality of education we received and how it prepared us for our next steps in life – further education, employment, new relationships. A few people responded that they were just happy to have graduated!
The next question was, “What’s the best thing about being your current age?” These responses were more varied. However, one thing that came up a number of times was gratitude for being “alive and relatively healthy” at this age. Our awareness of those who are no longer with us makes this all the more poignant. Another response that was frequently mentioned was “being more relaxed”, “comfortable with who I am”, and “don’t have to prove anything to anyone else”. Several stated that they feel wiser, having gone through a number of life trials to this point. Some said having more free time and the opportunity to pursue personal interests is a great gift at this age. “Grandkids” got a lot of mentions.
“What’s the most important element in your life now?” Several people talked about their spiritual life. Some mentioned the fulfillment they get from volunteering for such things as protecting animals and the environment, tutoring special needs children, and helping coach sports teams. Several people stated that they still have a job and love what they do. Many hobbies were mentioned such as gardening, iron work, home decorating, quilting, rowing, and travel (more travel on the bucket lists!). Friends, extended family, grandkids, spouses, and significant others were top priority for many.
“What’s on the top of your bucket list?” Many responses had to do with travel. Our classmates may show up in Iceland, Machu Picchu, Hawaii, Bora Bora and all 50 states. A couple people mentioned finishing books they are writing. Some had very specific activities that they plan to pursue such as finishing a home maintenance project. Someone else wants a very fast go-cart. The Memory Book has more to tell about individual bucket list items.
Finally, our classmates shared tidbits of wisdom that they have gathered over the past 50 years. Here is a sampling:
· Friends and family are the most important thing we have.
· Don’t take life too seriously
· Life is short. Live it to the fullest.
· Just be yourself
· Persistence is more important than talent or intelligence
· Listen with your heart
· Don’t let the past limit your present or future . . . Every day is a new beginning.
· Live in the Now.
· Most issues aren’t as big as they seem. This too will pass.
· It is difficult to change the world. Just do what you feel called to do.
· Keep learning all the time.
This is not an exhaustive list. Some referred to scripture or religious text that has provided guidance. Some indicated that they gained wisdom from personal life experiences that may have been difficult, but valuable. Certainly we all gained something from encountering our peers at this milestone occasion.