We've all got them. No matter what they may be....happy or sad, big or small....each of us has a set of dates that in some way 'define' us. Our own dates may mean nothing on a local, federal or universal scale, but to each of us they have become a 'reset' of sorts. Whether that reset was in a positive or negative aspect, we still pause every year to pay some sort of homage....even if it's to re-affirm the choices we've made since.

Now I'm not asking anyone to contribute anything to the thread that they are uncomfortable with, or ashamed of. That's your personal business.


I'm reminded every year on May 1st of two events that played a major part in not only my teen years, but to this very day. It was 20 years ago that my Grandfather chose to leave this world rather than be a burden on his family due to his emphysema. One year later and at nearly 12 hours earlier, my Great-Grandmother passed into eternal peace. Both of these people were extremely important to me.......and to this day on May 1st I always pause and think of them (more than usual).
*For 'Da', the list of things that he taught me is so long and involved that I'd be typing for days and still not have enough room. This man was my hero and my champion.
*For 'Nani', I feel her presence to this day whenever I cook. And when I am in or think about or see the Statue of Liberty, I wonder what it must have been like for her to come over on the boat at 10 years old, all alone.

SOME other dates for me include:

*March 3,1990: my cousin, with whom I was very close was killed by a drunk driver, only 9 months after we had graduated high school. That one was tough, still is even after 17 years........
*My birthday: that one goes without saying......
*November 26, 1992: the day my youngest brother made his entrance into the world....seeing that happen is one of the most amazing things and truly taught me how to 'pay it forward'....


You all get the idea now right?? Let's hear what you've got to say, I've taken up enough time!! :P

__________________
Non illigitamus carborundum~Vos mos non effrego mihi

Coming soon: 'JoeSpecialOps'