By: Lana Hollenback in 2014

I want to go back. Back to a simpler time. A time when families were held together with super glue and extended well beyond just mom, dad and grandpa and grandma. Where sisters actually hung out together and shared those timely secrets that only sisters can. A time when brothers looked out for their sisters and didn’t let anyone shove them around.

A time on weekends when families got together for cookouts and walks in the park. A time when we looked to our past to find our future. We thrived on the wisdom of our parents and no nursing home was good enough for our parents. I want to go back.

To a time when families helped each other and their were no hidden secrets in the closets or under the bed. Where we could express our feelings without fear of ridicule from our loved ones. Where folks knew how to put in a full days work for a good days pay. A time when we really knew how to play. Remember Croquette and Dodge Ball or even Roll at the Bat? I want to go back.

To a time when mom didn’t have to work just so Dad could drive that fancy new car. And Dad made enough money to put groceries on the table and when the blessing was said, every head at the table bowed even if it was only beans and tators. To a time when families could laugh and play and love and just be families. I want go back.

I’m living way to fast you see and the weight of life is weighing me down. But not to worry, I won’t burden you with my problems. You’re much to busy, I know. You need those name brand clothes and the kids need that in-ground pool. They have to impress those friends at school. And lest we forget, there’s a church at the end of the street. I want to go back.

But it’s way to late and we can’t go back. So I’ll look to the future and to the crossing of the bridge of life. As I look into the eyes of my aging mother with Alzheimer’s and realize she doesn’t even really know me, I’m not frightened. You see, none of us know each other any more. We’re living way to fast. I just want to go back.