The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck
A few weeks ago, I took my first kayak trip with a group of friends. These friends were a special group of people. They were some of my high school classmates. I can’t help but think that this trip was extra special because of the company. While the morning started out dreary and rainy, the weather took a turn for the better—and just in time. It was as if it changed just for our gathering. Some of us had never been on a kayak trip; others were old pros. While some of us frequently see each other, there were others that we had not seen in years. But what was so amazing about this particular trip was how strong the bond was among us. You could literally feel it.
We kayaked for four hours or so, with everyone enjoying every minute of it. We spent time catching up with one another, cracking jokes, assisting each other when needed, but most of all we laughed and smiled nonstop. Everyone one of us. It was by far one of the best times I’ve ever had. I can’t speak for my classmates, but I would venture to say that they would all participate in a trip or other adventure like that again.
As we graduate from high school, we all meet new people and make new friends along the way. However, none can compare to our classmates. With our classmates, we create a special bond because we spent so many of our years growing up with them. They are like family. We have many things in common because we experienced so much together. We spent hours, days, and years together. We suffered through the awkward stages together and we celebrated milestones together. We shared teachers, sports events, heartaches, laughter, and so much more. Because of all of this, we can reminisce, laugh, and care for each other like we can’t with others.
Traditionally, classmates get together every five to ten years for their class reunions. However, too often life events may get in the way of making those reunions. Therefore, we don’t always get the chance to reconnect during those few and far between occasions. So why not make the effort to bring classmates together? It doesn’t even have to be a big ordeal. Whether you plan a hiking trip, kayak trip, golfing trip, bowling night, a bonfire, or other event, I guarantee you won’t regret it. It is likely going to be marked as one of the best times you’ve ever had. Get on the phone today and make it happen!
Jill Starbuck has 20 years of experience as a business writer, editor, and market research analyst. She is a certified health coach through the Integrative Institute of Nutrition and a certified running coach through the Road Runners Club of America. She is also the co-owner of a running business. She can be reached at jillstarbuck@hotmail.com.
