I had a dream twenty minutes before I started chalking. Let me make this very clear, I was sound asleep.
In the dream, my mom caught me rubbing one off.
“John Stephen Shepley! What is going on in here?”
I wasn’t worried about getting caught nearly as much as I was upset that I was a kid again, living in my mom’s house. I was worried about not making it to work today. I was worried about all the things I own as an adult, where everything was and who was taking care of my stuff. Most of all, I was concerned that the ShepKids didn’t have an Oldman because he was back in high school, in trouble with their Gramma.
I sure was relieved when I woke up and realized my ma didn’t bust me sleeping with Farrah Fawcett.
I started chalking the quote and thinking about that dream. It made me think about my age and the milestone I’m lifting this summer, especially one that starts with a six handle. I have been auditing my life more. Reflecting on how I got here.
At 30, you think you have time.
At 40, you think you are building.
At 50, you realize the clock is real.
At 60, you start asking: Did I waste spins on a merry-go-round?
I don’t fear the big 6-0. I fear unfinished business.
I am stepping off the ride and looking at the park map. I don’t have to impress anyone anymore. I just need to be honest with myself.
My mom busting me with my schwantz in my hand made me realize something simple: I’m not late for the show. I’m wide awake and everything I want is all around me.
Today is Chocolate Mint Ice Cream Day. It is going to be a good day... unless that is what you gave up for Lent.
This last week of warm temperatures was just what we needed to get over the hump and into spring...
...And that, right there, is astonishing.
