Find A Lighthouse

Technology, gadgets and gizmos are fairly beyond me.

I've seen few movies that were made prior to say, 1997, which incidentally is the year I graduated high school. (Shout out to my MCS peeps.)

I love the idea of technology. I enjoy my phone, some social media, GPS (because I lack any positive sense of direction.), and the idea that things can be done more quickly and efficiently.

I find I don't feel entirely comfortable in a world with technology. I couldn't do one blessed thing in Excel for you. I can barely scan a document and send it. I'll likely never apply for a job that has to do with office work because I am more a laborer with my hands. A legacy I've received from a simpler time.

With these constraints, few people understand me. I think often I am judged as less intelligent, less effective, less sure. Certainly in some cases all of the above apply. But I would caution you to not dismiss me so readily. If the task is equal to my strengths, you will not find a more dedicated soul. I find I am addicted to the idea of excellence. To the pursuit of accomplishment.

Accomplishment comes in so many ways, and I have been mentally pursuing what will best define me. Change? Growth? Do I need to hoe a new row? How much water and sunshine am I pouring in? What result do I see after the pursuit of excellence?

Down this avenue, I feel mentors are an excellent resource. An outside, guiding force with no agenda. Providing insight without emotion or investments, other than concern for your well being. These types of relationships will prove invaluable over the course of your lifetime. I think grandparents fall right in line in this category.

I saw a photo of my grandparents today and the immediate joy and heartache I felt was overwhelming. I miss the opportunity to visit their home, to drop in unannounced, to grab a snack from the snack drawer. Simple times. For simple people.

I feel very anxious for the wisdom of age to pour into my life. I am not less intelligent, but I am less certain.

I think I need to take a trip to visit my Grandpa. He gives the best hugs of anyone I have ever known. In his embrace I am the safest and most cherished that I will ever be. (This does not discount other relationships, but it acknowledges the deep assurance I have in this one.) He is the king of Scrabble and he taught me to love the game. He steered me from working at McDonald's which might now be unfortunate for him since he eats there and I could potentially get him a sweet discount. He loves fried chicken, hot sauce, and Texas sheetcake as much as I do. I adore him with my whole heart and his advice is always spot on.

Grandparents are a lighthouse. A built in mentoring program by God for when we are drifting, worried, or unsure. I will forever be thankful for the gift of all of them in my life.

Now I need to get to Atlanta...