Maybe, it is the fact that I just “celebrated” yet another birthday. Maybe, it is because my youngest child will be married in a few short weeks. Whatever the reason, I am feeling somewhat sentimental this week. Once again, I find myself wondering how the years have passed so quickly.

I feel much like the person who arrives at a destination but has no recollection of how they got there. As I focus on accomplishing the demands of each new day, I sometimes fail to notice that these days are quickly turning into weeks, months and years. It is only upon reflection that I recognize the years that have passed and appreciate how full they have been.

It occurs to me that the same is true of our individual growth, change and progress in this life. Often our day to day growth and progress seem almost imperceptible. We sometimes get discouraged and feel as if we are not progressing. Like slowly, steadily climbing a steep, rocky hill one foothold at a time, it is not until we stop and look back that we realize how far we have come.

Earlier this week, I was reminded of this as I gazed at the tree outside my office window. A few weeks ago it’s branches were stark, barren and seemingly lifeless. Today, they are covered with lush, beautiful, vibrant green leaves. The growth of the tree was too gradual for me to observe, but I know that it occurred. I know that the tree has grown and matured because I can see what it is today.

So this week, birthdays and weddings have filled my thoughts and caused me to wax nostalgic. I have been contemplating my life and my own growth and progress. There have been many times throughout my life that I have felt my progress too slow or even nonexistent. I will not let these times dissuade me because I know that I have grown, matured and progressed. I know this because I see who and what I am today.

As I pause, look back and see how far I have come and who and what I am today, I am inspired by the hope and vision of who and what I may yet become….