I’ve noticed how conversations have shifted over the years. I remember, as a young professional, having discussions with friends about the challenges of learning and developing in the workplace.
Then, as I had a young family, work talk was mixed with discussions about children. Over time, the problems became “more serious” as children grew into teenagers and approached college. Each decade seemed to bring new aspects into the mix.
Today, talk of careers has waned, replaced by conversations about grandchildren, illnesses, and the “untimely” deaths of relatives and peers. While I used to disengage from medical conversations, it’s now just part of life as we age.
I recently had dinner with a friend, during which we caught up on life and health. He shared news about friends who had passed, as well as others who were dealing with serious illness and infirmity. It was all very sad, but what emerged was the realization that, right now, at this moment, we are healthy, strong, and grateful.
Feeling gratitude is a pretty good antidote.
