Memories of my early adulthood, were when I was a teacher of my favorite courses history, geography and music.  History however, stands out in some ways, because it actually recorded the past of mankind.  While studying the history of various civilizations, I noticed that the statement history repeats itself actually holds some truth.

I noticed that the leaders of civilizations had certain things in common, that is they had a zeal and a passion to pursue and to conquer.  These leaders may have been heavily criticized by historians who contend that the less civilized folk should be left alone to develop their own culture, and to survive in a way that best suited them.  Perhaps that is true too.  I certainly do not approve of the violence that the so called uncivilized people had to endure when the Europeans came to the New World.  There are arguments that the people of the New World would not have been developed as they are today.  One thing for sure, is that history has given us a time to remember.

Okay, that is history as it is written in the textbooks. What about our personal lives? Is there anything exciting going on in our lives? Is there anything worth remembering? Are there events to look back on and say, remember when? I think we all can reflect on memorable moments in our lives, but do we have anything to show for it. I am thankful for photographs, videos, DVDs, diaries and journals, but to what extent have we used these to our advantage? I know I have not used them as I should. I have lived a somewhat busy life, but I think life is what you make it. If you choose to be busy, you will be busy. If you choose to take the time to enjoy life, and all that it has to offer, you will find the time.  Therefore I am taking the time to enjoy some of what life has to offer right now.

There are so many important events in our lives. We tend to enjoy those moments, but we do not take the time to keep a memory that can be shared with others. We have to capture the moment. I think that is why camcorders, cameras, diaries and journals were created. We purchase them, but we do not use them as intended.

Did you take make arrangements for the recording of your wedding, or your graduation? Can you look back on the records with a smile, or a tear, or some sign of emotion, because someone took the time to capture the moment? What about the birth of your first child, as well as the second, third, fourth and fifth. Did you keep a record showing the stages of development? How about their first day of school? Do you have any photographs of them as they had the separation anxiety, and held unto you for dear life, or as they walked away proudly waving goodbye. How about those family trips to the beach, Disney World, to grandma or grandpa?

Did you take the time to take photographs of the graduation ceremonies for your children? What about all your grandchildren, do you have at least one photograph of all of them, and others of them individually?

Why should all that matter, you may ask? In the same way history is recorded in textbooks and later in photographs and videos. Likewise we can pass on our family history to the next generation. The best way, and the highly recommended way to pass on our family history, is through our photo albums and our videos. After all, that is the best way to prove that those things really happened. I'm sure you have heard those outstanding tales grandfathers like to tell. What proof do they have, that they went to those places and fought those battles. Absolutely none. Why should we believe then. The truth is we do not really believe anyway. We have no proof.

So the next time a family reunion is planned. Make sure you grab that camera and camcorder. The next generation wants to see proof. They also want to see photographs of themselves in the midst of the proof. We are in the twenty-first century. We have a responsibility to show the world that our memories can go down in history too. Who knows, you or a family member may even be in a history textbook too.

It is so easy to pack camcorders, cameras and laptops when taking a trip. We do need to remember to take extra batteries. It is imperative that we download our masterpiece quickly to make room on our cameras and camcorders. It is so easy to share our experience with others who are not even there. It is great to have the internet, you tube and the ability to share photographs. The sky is the limit. We can do great things with what is available. We can even showcase our photographs and videos on social networking sites such as facebook.

Whatever you do, live each day as if it were your last, because it may very well be. Enjoy time with your family and friends. Go to places that you have never visited. Do things you always wanted to do. Enjoy the great things that life has to offer. There are still places you need to explore. Many people still need to be met. However, make sure you have a record to look back on with the satisfaction that you can remember the great time you had. You will be glad you did.