These past few weeks, as I have been working to recreate some albums for my family by sorting through old pictures and boxes of sentimental keepsakes from my days in high school, college and law school, it has felt a lot like a trip back in time to a part of my life when things were a lot less complicated. No one warned me that life in my 30’s would become so difficult– so many responsibilities to tackle while trying to balance work and home life, while also finding time for myself and dealing with setbacks or losses. But I take solace in the fact that if I have come this far, against all odds, then surely I can handle whatever lies ahead.
Some of my friends are feeling a bit lost about how to navigate life now that there is no roadmap. So many of us took comfort in knowing that there was a plan- you get through school, get a good job, get married, buy a house, and form a family. Most of us in our 30’s have diligently been crossing these things off our list, but now we realize that there is not a strict timeline or plan for what should happen next. This can be a great source of anxiety for some, but I see it as a great opportunity to now truly be the masters of our own destiny.
I have no idea what lies ahead, but taking a look into the past has brought me great comfort. Looking back has helped remind me of all the wonderful people that crossed my path all these years, and reading all the loving letters and post cards from friends from years ago has helped reassure me that the best part of this long journey we are each on is that we do not have to travel it alone.
By Regina A. DeMeo, Esq.
