a BLITZ of a night

A long time friend, and B.I.C, of mine tied the knot a week ago. I couldn't be happier for him. We grew up together. We met around the grammar school years and as time went by, shared experiences grew us closer. This concept is also the same for the group of 'guys' within the wedding party and within the bachelor party. At this current point in life, some of us have moved away, began pursuing new careers, found loved ones, and even added new life to the group through children. All of these things bring new seasons and change. But one thing I noticed during the few days with these men is experiences can't ever take away the bond of friendship. As many of you know, I currently live in rainy Portland, Oregon. My current life looks much different than my first 25 years'ish. But one thing remains the same. What is that? Shared life experiences. No-body, No-distance, and No-time can take these away. I've met many SOLID friends within my year and a half in Portland. New life experiences are unfolding faster than I can plan. I am grateful for this. However, there was a special energy last week when the ten of us came back together. All ten joined the team after different times of life, but each play's an intrigual part as another.

Right now its hard to attribute words to the time spent last week. A few are; refresh, joy, comfort, shenanigan's, youthful memories, brotherhood, Jaeger and celebration. All important life aspects that sometimes get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Well, maybe not lost, for I believe these to always be present in life. But rather, maybe hidden. Hidden by our own eyes. Hidden by our own laziness. Hidden by our own self-conscienceness.

So my buddy Ted, he is the one that wedded. He moved to Portland about 5 years ago I believe. We haven't spent much time together due to differences in work schedules and city location. But one thing that always remains is the closeness and bond that will never separate us as friends and brothers. What we did on Ted's bachelor party is not the point, despite the laughs and stories that were created and will be shared for years to come. The point is the time. The point is the commitment. The point is the sharing of life together. The point is the acceptance of all. The point is the intentionality. The point is the giving of who you are to each other. It's about bringing to the table who you are, bringing the talents and qualities that you were made to give away, allowing then the group as a whole to become one big brotherhood of Tom-Foolery and Genuine love.

This got me thinking about the importance of time and relationships. Now we all won't argue that time heals, creates, supports, bonds, thickens, and strengthens all. However, why does it take time? And moreso, is it the time that does this, or is it us, human beings, that need time to do the 'things' needed to strenghthen, support, give, create, heal, mend, pursue, trust? My answer is Yes! Both, obviously. However, I would say the latter, humans that is, has the bigger role. What do I mean?.....bare with me. I am saying that I don't think it is the time itself that bonds things together, creates, and or brings people closer. I think it is the willingness of the individual to be open, free, honest, and unselfish. Since these attributes are not easy for some, this is where the time plays in. But my week with my friends got me seeing that one of the reasons outside the years of camping, sleepovers, high school events, tom-foolery, sporting activities, and nights at Blitz Pearl:) it is more about our openess and honesty with one another, alongside with our acceptance of each other for who we are, despite our flaws, despite our tendencies, and in spite of our Legitness!!!

Let me simplify, or try. Time obviously brings out things needed to bond people together. But can we shorten that timeframe? Or is it an energy within our world that just happens. I say we have full control. What I have found in my short 27 years of life, but breadth of 27 years of life experience is the more I open myself up, the more I am honest both with myself and the world around me, the more I remove expectations and guilt, and the more I live free of fears, the more life unfolds beautifully before my eyes. Thus, back to my 'hidden' life aspects comment. Life happens around us 24/7-365. The question then is, are we being willing to see and be a part of this already unfolding Life? Are we being willing to turn our fears, doubts and self-consciousness off? Are we willing to bust down walls that extend from the sides of our face so that we can see what Life and time is already giving us? It's begging for us to notice and take advantage of. Every moment, every second of everyday is a new creation. Are you utilizing it? If not, may I suggest getting a group of your closest friends and celebrating. Tell stories, hug, play golf, go to your local bar, paint, whatever you are good at, whatever stirs your emotions inside and excites you, GO DO! Go Celebrate one another and Life itself! We did this last week, and it turned into a BLITZ of a night for sure! May we open our lives to the lives around us and the life that is beautifully alive every moment of every day. Much Love to Ted, Matt, Matt, Mike, Mike, Ben, Tim, Joe, Andy, Mr. Jaeger himself and the BLITZ of a night that reminded me of what Life is all about. Love you all......until next time.

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