Perspectives

It's been an interesting few days. My father, who is 92, has been in and out of the hospital with blood pressure issues and an upper respiratory infection. We have just arranged hospice care for my mother, who is 84, had a stroke, is recovering from cancer, and suffers from Alzheimers. She is clearly declining, and it's probably a matter of weeks, or at best (?) a few months.

At the same time, this is a 25 year reunion weekend for a bunch of people with whom I used to work. It was an exceptional group: tight-knit, talented, hard working, and enjoyable to be with. We've stayed in touch over the years, and I still feel very close to many of them. It was so good to see them again.

Finally, it's nearing the end of another school year. This is always a time of mixed emotions. So many of my students are the first ones in their family to graduate from college. It's heart-warming to see the extended families come for graduation, many of them still in their work clothes, taking a quick break from working on Saturdays to see sons, daughters, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, etc. walk across the stage.

On the other hand, this is also the time when lots of kids who didn't make the effort, didn't exert themselves, and didn't keep up, realize what deep doo-doo they're in. They are now paying the price for decisions made and actions taken (or not taken). In the long run, this may be the best lesson they learn in college.

Bottom line - many swirling emotions, much reflection ... as Socrates said, the unexamined life is not worth living. So I guess for a small sliver of time introspective me has raised his game to classical philosophical levels (at least until I can get another Shiner).