the reflection begins

as my birthday and the end of the year approaches, i begin my annual reflection on my life. this year has included a lot of changes, new job, new car and a lot of new friends. i've also been in contact with a lot of old friends this year for the first time in a long time. i just got reconnected today with one of my two college roommates. i also found my junior high locker partner on facebook.

i'm really grateful for the incredible people that i encounter and for the relationships that those encounters warrant. i love a good conversation, especially one that challenges me to think about what i truly think and whether i'm brave enough to share it. i've had some really incredible ones this year.

i have found that having younger friends, despite making me feel old at times, can give me a fresh perspective on life. i can't wait to see how they impact the world. i think they are going to be incredible.

i also enjoy the advice my older friends have to share with me. i love that i can call my friend, maribeth, as i drive to my parents and she can call me out on my crap (even though i haven't talked to her in months). she should expect a call on monday.

overall, i struggle with being a good friend at times. i think i'm the worst with the people that i've known the longest. i think i have chosen very forgiving people as my friends. i hope that people know that whether i call, email or text or not that i am constantly reminded of my friends through photos, songs, or memories. feel free to call me on my crap. or just call. craig, just don't wake me up.