Changes

I've never been one to like changes. Oftentimes, they hit me pretty hard. Some are more embraceable than others. I was struck Friday night by the changes of life (It sounds painful, but it didn't really hurt -- well, not much anyway.)

We were in Manteo for the 4th of July -- our annual tradition, as it has existed for the last 7 years, at least, with our friends Randy and Rachel and their three children: Katherine, David, and Daniel. This is one of the foregone conclusions of our year, and one of the favorite things we do. And while THAT hopefully won't change, it is about to face a number of changes. For one, Katherine just graduated from high school. As unbelievable as that seems, it is true. So this was our last Independence Day before Katherine spreads her wings and explores her own independence. I have to say, Rachel and Randy are brave people, because there were a couple of moments of the evening that were bittersweet for me for that reason. I sincerely hope that Katherine will be there with us next year, but it is assured to have a different feel. And then I thought about changes going on in our life and the search for adoptive children. I made the comment that next year we might have to drive 2 vehicles -- that within itself, such a seemingly small change shouts loudly in my ears. Why? Next year Shane and I may have 2-3 children to take with us, which will necessitate a second vehicle. Changes. . . .Then as the fireworks were exploding over our heads, I was overwhelmed with so many emotions -- all these changes as well as patriotic feelings, but then settled over me this one quiet feeling that next year, maybe, we'll get to share this amazing experience with 2-3 young people who will see the value of lifelong friendship, the soul-stirring beauty of music well-played, the relaxing feeling of being near the water, the heart-squeezing gratitude of being American, and what it means to be family, and that it has never been about the blood -- it's all about the love.

Next year may bring changes, but not all changes are bad. Spreading wings and growing families are changes, but they are pretty wonderful changes.