This is not a typical April 15 reflection that you might think it is. Sure the taxes are due, and this year we get a break and we don't have to have the forms postmarked until Monday.
But this April 15 happens to be my birthday. My 50th birthday.
And I have been happy about that. My plan for my life was so much different than what has happened the past 50 years, and I can not chronicle them all here. Yet I recall a few of them that - at the time - did not seem significant, yet as I look back, it is easy to see how God had a hand in this wonderful journey that He has had for me.
The first thing I recall is the challenge I had just to get into this elective class when I was in my last year and rotations in Veterinary school. It was not the class in medical photography, nor the one on soft tissue surgery, nor the ophthalmology rotation. It was a ballroom dance class that was off the veterinary school campus.
There was a 6 pm class, and it looked like a fun thing that my former non veterinary roommate (now graduate) and I had always talked about taking.
So I realized, this was my last chance. So I talked to the admissions folks at Veterinary school, and as long as it did not interfere with the rotations, that was fine. I talked to the Physical education college, and they said it was ok, as long as I got the approval of the instructor. I tried (over my limited lunch breaks) to run up and talk to the instructor, and each time the office hours were posted, when got to the office, Ms. Villacorta was not there. Two days later, I got a 30 minute break, and tried again, and unfortunately, she was not there again. I came back frustrated, and a classmate, Larry, encouraged me - Ray - try again - I can cover for you for 30 min this afternoon, and maybe you can catch the instructor at class. So I did, and met the instructor, and she asked if I could join this class - I told her no, with my 'other classes', so she allowed me to take the beginning ballroom dance class at 6 in the evening, even though classes had been going on for 1 week already. She had me come that first class and just observe. Of course, we end up with a sick case in the 'large animal' rotation, so I came in just at the time, with my clinic coveralls on. I am sure I looked like a total dork/ or hick. But it was interesting.
And in that class was where I met Kelly... my wife.
I am so greatful for the chance to meet her, and how God has put so many different opportunities in front of me, and how He has given me the courage and fortitude to take advantage to the opportunities. Just to name a few:
-worker at an animal ER clinic (before it was popularized on animal planet)
-moved to Milwaukee, and besides working there, was invited by our parish priest to be involved in the RCIA group. I learned more there than my sponsor did.
- start working as a 'relief' veterinarian in Milwaukee
- the birth of Natalie at St Luke in Milwaukee
- moving to Illinois to spend more time with extended family
- living in a home that truly have been a gift
- helping over 100 colleagues take a break from practice, and enjoy their own family time
- when the time came for something I had dreamed about back in veterinary school - it was time to own a practice, and the perfect practice became available.
I often think - why are we so scared of certain 'ages' we cross. I have not had that concern, and at first I was not sure why. Even when I was thinking about each of these different events, I had not thought - why not be scared/ remorseful, etc?
Then I realized why. On my dad's side, I have 3 cousins my same age. Michelle, Ramona, and Mickey.
Mic died in February 2009. He won't be celebrating a birthday this year with his earthly family. That makes me appreciate this birthday all the more.
Yet at the same time, I pray that he is celebrating his birthday this year with his parents and grandparents in heaven.
So I celebrate this birthday, and enjoy the thanks and fellowship of friends, pet owners, and colleagues who have been a part of my life, and helped me to become a better person. Thank you all for sharing your life with me.
"Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you're alive,
it isn't."
- Richard Bach
