Returned from my 25th anniversary high school reunion and the feeling is bittersweet. Over 200 from a class of 725 returned to visit, get reacquainted, and in some cases, to satisfy a curiosity. One of the first things one notices is the variance in the “age” of those attending. Although we are all the same age, some look ten years older and some even ten years younger than the norm. After visiting around, it becomes clear that the difference in “aging” has a lot to do with the lifestyle and work of the alumni. Those who have had hard lives, spent a lot of time in the sun, over-indulged in harmful substances, or just didn’t take care of themselves, clearly have aged much more. Those who look ten years younger... we credit to good genes and self-respect.

    The “bitter” part of the experience was to learn that some classmates have had a very sad, tough life. This, in large part, was a result of broken homes, poor spouse choices, and betrayal. In our high school days, we had such innocent and bright hopes for the future. Many of those hopes had been disappointed. Some have moved on to heal and to live productive lives. As I talked with others, I could still see the distant pain and disillusionment in their eyes. However, there was a clear triumph in the eyes of those who are living for Christ and who have looked to him for their victories.

    The “sweet” part of this weekend was the laughter and reconnection that occurred. We had a PowerPoint loop running with pictures of our past, slides of trivia from that era, and music from the 70’s playing. It reminded us of the child we’ve never completely outgrown. The greetings and hugs, which were genuine and freely given, were a wonderful reassurance of our past connection.

...the feeling is bittersweet.

    For two days we visited, teased each other, made plans to keep in touch, laughed long and hard, and then hugged as we parted. It was a busy weekend, and my voice was shot and energy gone as I drove back to Austin. However, the highlights of the weekend will stay with me for a long time:

1. Discovering that Jesus had touched the lives of many; having conversations with some of the “wildest” of our classmates, only to find that they were now born again Christians living successful, joyful lives.

2. Discovering that we have a deep connection because of the years we spent together in those formative years; a connection that transcends time and distance, abuse and neglect.

3. Discovering that my life has been good, although tough at many turns, because I gave my life to Jesus over 25 years ago.

4. Discovering that our class has produced several surgeons, physicians, dentists, attorneys, teachers, nurses, community leaders and ministers. As a group we have made a positive contribution to society.

5. Discovering that 25 years later, we are seriously connected to each other; and will remain that way.

    Reunions are significant in our lives as they give us a point in time to reflect on our past, evaluate our lives, and reaffirm hope for the future. Reunions provide an opportunity to re-inspire our friends or loved ones with our sincere confidence in their ability and their spirit. We offer a reassurance that comes from the heart, and from enduring what life has brought our way.

    Experiencing reunions here on earth allows us to also look forward to our ultimate reunion with our Savior. His love and reassurance, his forgiveness and open arms, are all the more wonderful because we will all be going home to a place that endures beyond 25 years, 100 years or even 1000 years. I’m looking forward to that reunion even more now! His holy arms will be stronger; his voice and touch will be precious and his home will be ours.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil for though art with me, thy rod and thy staff comfort me... and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever.” - Psalm 23

Article © 2001, Laura Brockman Beall. Used by permission.
Title: "The House of Reunion"
Author: Laura Brockman Beall
Publication Date: June 26, 2001

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