Roots

Roots:

~family, ethnic, or cultural origins, especially the reasons for one’s long standing emotional attachment to a place or community.

~the essential substance or nature of something

~a part of a thing attaching it to a greater or more fundamental whole; the end or base

~The part of a plant that attaches it to ground or to a support, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the plant via nourishment and fibers

I had a conversation with an old friend last night. A good friend. The type of friend that despite miles and years of being apart, nothing has changed. Well, plenty has changed - so much has changed. But in reconnecting, in talking and sharing all that has happened, its like no time has passed. It seems one of the few ways we can disregard our calendar... and that clock we manage each of our days by.

Their are few individuals out there that despite the choices we make and the places the road may take us. All of that distance can be overcome with a simple hello, a warm smile, or just the memory of a time that seemed so simple. Those individuals are rooted deep within our being. Not part of our identity, but so deeply involved with who we have become that no matter where we are, they seem a stones throw away - willing to take part in the most important part of our lives.

I suppose I could be putting way too much into the idea of... or the importance of those who have been with us as we’ve grown, seen our successes and our mistakes and continue to celebrate our small victories. Like the definitions above, our roots are our origins, attach us to our base, a community which provides nourishment and support. There is something to be said about who you grew up with in those places in which you grew up... a sense of belonging, a common denominator or unsaid understanding of each other. There is comfort in that. Thats why reunions can be so exciting - sharing where you’ve been with those from which you came.

This is a thank you. This is a shout out. I’m giving virtual props to those who have grown with me. Wherever you may be, whatever you may be experiencing... even though I may not be within arms reach, I’m not far.

And this also goes out to the individual who sparked this blog... a long distance dedication, and a thank you. You know who you are. You are special and loved by many. I may be miles and miles away... but as we know, that span can be covered in as little as ten digits.