42-24 … I’m 42 Today: What I’d Say to a 24 Year Old Me

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42-24 … I’m 42 Today: What I’d Say to a 24 Year Old Me

“You did what?”

Those were the words echoed by several young bucks (and does) when I shared the news that Denise and I were engaged … over the Christmas holiday season of 1993 and at the tender age of 22.

No, she wasn’t pregnant.

And yes, I’m certain my in-laws are still recovering.

But we *were* sensible enough – to those in our various circles – to schedule a wedding date for July 1, 1995 giving us time to complete our undergraduate degrees and maybe even find a job. Which, when you do the remedial math (arguably difficult for some of those we were hanging around with at the time) means we got married at the age of 24.

Twenty-four.

I know.

It’s as though we were born in the 40′s and 50′s and got married in the 60′s. Call us Mr. And Mrs. Cleaver. (Although Denise being Denise she kept her last name so what do I know?)

That’s what you did ‘back then’ in the 50′s, 60′s and even the 70′s; you got married young. It was unheard of in 1995, or at least within our friends and family plan.

We hadn’t even graduated from McGill University so why on Earth were we getting engaged? Oh, the horror.

But I wouldn’t change it for the world. Today, I turn 42 and when I looked at the numbers – four and two for those of you playing the online version – it reminded me of that fabulous day in 1995 when we got married. I was 24. Denise was 24. It was a 24-hour day that will never be forgotten.

I mean c’mon, we had a stripping gorilla at our wedding. Did you?

And if I had the chance, what more would I say to myself as a 24-year old knowing what I know today at the age of 42?

For people in Western Canada, a case of beer is 24 not 12.

Dan, you can continue to embarrass and make fun of those that believe it in opposite terms

You’re moving to Vancouver in five weeks. It is a fabulous place.

Dan, you will try to move back to Ontario, but it’s futile. Just stay put – Vancouver is the most magical place in the world.

In a few years you will begin to enjoy — even fancy — Scotch.

Dan, don’t tell people it’s a drink for aristocrats only.

Those beer swigging idiots that show up at The Tragically Hip concerts mosh pit ‘dancing’ causing trouble and embarrassment will continue to be beer swigging idiots later in life.

Dan, don’t be a hero – let them be.

Fatherhood is the single most important role you will have in your life.

Dan, trust your instincts, you won’t screw things up.

Islands are surrounded by water and for all intents and purposes prove difficult to get off of during inclement weather.

Dan, everything always works out so enjoy the moment.

Even if you are yourself – a truthful, open and passionate self – there are evil corporate citizens who will seek to sabotage or undercut your beliefs.

Dan, grow up … you can’t get to great without going through a few hornet nests.

Things will change. For example, for some unknown reason you will no longer enjoy open patios, balconies or bridges where you’re more than 30 feet off the ground.

Dan, fear is ok … it’s a natural part of life, just don’t let it consume you. Ever.

Your Achilles tendon will become your Achilles heel.

Dan, you should take up cycling now at 24 not at 34.

Possibilities are endless. They might even invent a razor-thin laptop the size of an 8 1/2 x 11″ piece of paper.

Dan, your mind will continue to race like a Disney Imagineer … it’s ok to constantly dream and envision what will make the world, organizations and your family better … just know not everyone will see the world as you do … and that’s ok.

You are getting married in 10 days.