This past weekend I attended my 40-year reunion at Minden High School. My graduating class had just slightly over 200 students, and we had nearly half of that number attend the reunion. While it was 40 years since we were together in school, the atmosphere was much the same. We have different racial backgrounds, different paths after high school, and different interests in many ways, but there has always been a unique bond.
Some had moved away and came back for the reunion. Others have stayed in the area their entire lives. Some have had huge financial success. Others are still finding their way. Some are now grandparents. Others weren’t blessed with a family. Some have had major health issues. Others have been spared health concerns so far.
We had different interests in high school but always supported one another. We were a graduating class that had students break academic records, and classmates that admittedly cheated on tests. We had athletes that were part of four state championships, and classmates that chose to excel in drama, art, and hanging-out. We had members that partied hard on every opportunity, and others that chose other ways to spend a weekend.
With all the diversity, there was also great unity. The unifying factor was that we were a class that advanced through school together and genuinely enjoyed being together. As I sought to engage each one at the reunion, I was reminded of that fact as there remained a genuine desire to see one another and get caught up on things. The mutual respect remains greater than any potential divisive issue. There was also the reminder of almost thirty of our classmates that are no longer with us.
I drove home Saturday night remembering, reflecting, but also renewing. If a graduating class from Minden High School can still gather with such diversity and experience that same unity after all those years, why can’t we see that level of unified diversity in all aspects of our society? I have renewed confidence that it is possible. The key is not to focus on our differences but rather focus on that which unites us.
I also have a renewed focus on making the most of every day and making the most of every relationship. As I looked at the table with pictures of our deceased classmates, I was reminded of the value of life and relationships. I just wondered what those individuals would have accomplished, what lives they left behind, and what could have been for them. It was just another reminder to make the most of every opportunity!
It’s fun to remember good times together. It’s great to reflect on solid relationships and accomplishments. However, it’s more important to renew a commitment to impact the future. Sometimes, looking back helps us pursue the future with renewed focus!