No matter what...this is where I am meant to be

Friday was the first day of real summer in southern California. It was hot and is hotter still today. It's a dry heat though, one that has always accompanied my childhood summers and, so, I welcome the old friend. I soaked up the heat of the sun this weekend by the pool near family and friends. I know that although this is probably my last summer at home it will be very similar to those old familiar days trapped inside my memories. Days off of work will be spent with friends at the beach or at pool parties and BBQs with family. The hot nights will be spent lounging and looking at the stars in the clear warm summer skies.
I am a firm believer in the seasons of life. And all of this reminiscing and pondering has made me realize, I am in the summer of my life now. I am still inspired by the late blooms of the past season, but for the most part the newness of life that was my childhood spring is gone. I am fully grown now; not surprised by much. I willingly accept the growth process--the painful scorch of the sun that burns as it nourishes, the thirst for rain to supply and cleanse--yes, this is where I am meant to be. This is me. This is summer.