Today I woke to a new decade of life.
I feel blessed by the Holy Trinity, the Blessed Mother, and the heavenly Saints for more time to earn my wings and hopefully get Saint Peter's OK to enter heaven. Also, over the years, I have been equally blessed with a wonderful wife and many loving/caring friends and family members.
Like many other boomers, I am surprised to rise every day with most of my mental and physical parts still working.
Over the years, I've survived all the emotions of Vietnam, world conflicts, 9-11, the all "me" and materialistic times, and saying goodbye to my "greatest generation" family and too many dear friends, work associates, and family members. However, I feel lucky to have witnessed so much history and the daily glories of nature and my backyard critters.
In my opinion, after 70, the days and years have passed too quickly. I have so many unfinished projects and decluttering tasks yet to be done. But, I have resigned myself to follow whatever challenges and crises lie in the future of my "final lap".
I will remain calm and at peace tonight as I celebrate my 80th with a cigar and a brimming glass of sweet Cabernet Sauvignon and consider beginning my "ninth" decade tommorow!
