As a youngster, I fondly recall laying on my back in the park or my backyard and gazing at the clouds. At that age, I didn’t know a cumulus from cirrus, but that wasn’t important. I just enjoyed watching the clouds move in and out of formations. A couple years later Judy Collins was singing about looking at clouds from “both sides now.” As a pre-teen I really didn’t understand the references of clouds and love and life, but I could play the tune on my clarinet, so obviously I liked the song.
Nearly five decades later, I don’t lay on my back and look at the clouds anymore. Now I view them from a porch swing. The fascination I had as a kid with clouds has been replaced by the solitude of star-gazing at night. My focus is not on the formations of the constellations, but more regularly on the formation of friendships I have developed over the years. I look to the heavens and think about this person or that person; a memory, a mentoring relationship, a bond, or more. Depending on the depth of the acquaintance the questions running through my mind vary from; “Whatever became of… to I wonder how this person is feeling?”
Time has a way of getting away from all of us. We are wrapped up in our work, our family and ourselves. Before we know it a year has passed and the only connection to past relationships is the obligatory Christmas card. All the social media vehicles at our disposal should make it any easier, but often do not. Why not? Because someone has to consciously reach out. It’s an effort we tend to shy away from.
Recently, I received a text message from an old friend. It brought back a rush of good memories and it was wonderful catching up. That evening I looked up at the stars and thought about several other people who have passed through my life and made a memory and a difference. The next day I looked at clouds and thought how much clouds and stars remind me of relationships. Some don’t last, they blow in and blow away or change from robust to fleeting just like clouds on a breezy day. Others relationships shine brightly. Like the North Star, they seem to always be there when you need them for direction or guidance. They are often a source for comfort and inspiration.
I need to reach out more to those who have made a difference in my life. People who have fed my brain and touched my heart. If you look up to the stars tonight and think of someone you would like to reconnect with for one reason or another, make the effort to reach out the next day. There’s a very good chance you will make that person’s day and give your own day a very special lift.
Life is all about building, nurturing and maintaining relationships. Letting someone know you appreciate and value their friendship, whether you haven’t talked to them in weeks, months, or years is a gift for you both to share. Keep looking up and reaching for the stars in your life.