13 Words

Recently, my friend Helen shared an article from the New York Times with 13-word love stories it solicited from its readers. Always up for a challenge, I responded to her thread on Facebook:

A blind date arranged by my airheaded sister became love at first sight. 

 Of course, there's a lot more to the story, but it was fun condensing it into one line. So, I decided to use 13 words to describe other life events. It's especially fitting because in my house, 13 is a favorite number, a lucky number.

For those of you who like a challenge, this is a fun one. I'd love to see your 13-word stories or descriptions in the comments section!

Parenthood

 Wiping butts, noses, spills, and tears until there's nothing left to wipe up. 

 A bundle of emotions--the good, bad and ugly--wrapped in a blanket. 

 The hungry love that chews its way into every cell, swallows you whole. 

 Career

 When you receive a paycheck for pursuing your passion and living with purpose. 

 The satisfaction of success stemming not from self-serving goals, but service to others.  

 The effect of your positive actions sends ripples of light through the world.
Marriage 

Waking up next to the same person after 26 years and not hating it. (Inspired by a student who once asked me how I could stand to be with the same person for my whole life.)

Once the fury of new love settles, the unbreakable bond of friendship forms. 

 A commitment constantly challenged by the chaos of life, requiring regularly scheduled recommitments. 

Friendship

 The understanding, supportive shoulder to cry on when you're knee-deep in lice-infested bedding.

 The person who can ditch you when you're being a bitch but doesn't.

 The wide safety net below when you're forced to jump out the window.
Transitions

 Times of manic madness followed by satisfying sanity--until the next change happens.

 The shedding of your dry, cracking skin to reveal the healthy glow beneath. 

 The winding side roads forcing you off the freeway for your own good. 

 Faith

 Some say it is blind, but faith requires wide open and observant eyes. 

 Some navigate the world without faith; I need it like air, like water. 

 That silent entity that lets you know you're not alone in this world.

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