Where do you call home? That is a confusing question for me. I have two school reunions this year.  One is in Racine, Wisconsin.  I went to school in Racine through the 7^th grade.  I still consider Racine home. My formative years there were memorable, and the people I grew up with are priceless.  But the family moved to Lubbock in June of 1975.  I completed high school there in 1980. And I went on to complete an undergraduate degree at Lubbock Christian University in 1984.  Lubbock will always be home as well. 

There is more to the story. I was born in Atlanta.  Our family moved to Overland Park, Kansas in 1964.  And that was followed by a move to Arlington Heights, Illinois in January,1966.  And then the move to Racine followed in June,1969.

Moving is not easy.  Leaving friends behind was done in an era that preceded social media and all forms of instant messaging.  Making phone calls was not realistic, because long-distance fees applied. 

And then there is the challenge of adapting to a new school and making new friends.  By the time I came along as the youngest child in the family, my mother was a seasoned expert in moving.  Consequently, she told me a few things that have stayed with me.

• She encouraged openness to new people. You made it clear that I needed to make the effort to meet the kids who were already a part of the community where we had moved.  I was urged to take that responsibility.  Today, I am still inclined to initiate dialogue with people I do not know.

• She cautioned me not to forget the person who was friendly to me from the very beginning.  Not everyone is eager to meet the new kid at school on the first day.  Her point was: you will eventually assimilate into an entire group of friends.  But when you do, do not forget that one special person who enfolded you from the very first day.  Her words of wisdom in that regard continue to speak to me today.

My cherished grandson, here is today’s word from the paternal side. Be prepared for change. It is coming. You may get a chance to move once or twice or even more.  Change is not all bad.  You will learn to meet new people. And you will also learn to keep up with those you knew beforehand.  Both experiences are valuable. When properly nurtured, friendships can last a lifetime.