Our entire lives are spent working to prepare for the next thing. Kindergarten is spent getting kids ready for first grade. Stand in any first grade classroom throughout the day and you will hear continually that they will need to know this for second grade. Elementary school is all about preparing for middle school, middle school for high school and the four years spent there is all about getting into the right college (or for many of what you could afford). We go to college to be prepared for the real world and once there many feel they are totally not prepared!
What no one ever tells you is that there is just no end to the cycle. When we are young we assume that it is all for a purpose, as if we will be rewarded as a result of our years of preparation. Once out of school it is about working to get ahead or more the norm just to stay afloat. Work hard, hard, harder just to pay your bills and don’t forget the outstretched hand of the government. Property taxes, sales taxes, federal income taxes and for many of us state income taxes and now a presidential election where some say we still don’t pay enough.
Our lives lived as if we were merely hamsters on a wheel, running in circles. 
Recently there has been much sadness around us. Cancer, a very rare medical situation and a massive heart attack. Taken much too young, a friend, an acquaintance , a relative of a friend, all under 50 years. Why does it take such tragedy to make you say STOP, if even for just a little while. We spent the weekend as a family enjoying beautiful weather and some great soccer.
Sure the bills must be paid and the tests taken. The days will pass but we all need to make a conscience effort to enjoy the little things. To stop and recognize the beauty of each day. I am not an extremely religious person but I thank God for each morning I get to kiss the girls as I wake them or see them smile with each new achievement. Life is too short, before you know it you are looking back wishing for one more moment. Enjoy the moments while in them, smile more and worry less. It’s easy enough to say right? I am willing to put in the effort!
Decisions for my Family 