How I did it: It took a lot of courage because I wasn't sure how these how friends would respond to my attempt to contact them after so many years. Fortunately, it was all positive. I felt as if the years just melted away as we shared our life stories with each other.

Lessons & tips: 1. One person I contacted died a month later. I was very upset but I have no regret since we did speak and I have pictures of her at the last meeting.
2. One person is dying but I have gotten to sit down and talk to her a couple times which felt good.
3. Reconnecting with friends who knew me from an earlier time helped me connect the dots and answer questions about my life that I have wondered about.
4. It feels good to hear someone who knew you from 30 years ago say "you done good."
5. Stay in contact with Facebook, email, and cards.
6. Sometimes you can't wait for others to make the first move. You just have to do it yourself to get what you want.

Resources: 1. My 30th Class reunion forced my hand but I'm glad I bit the bullet. I'm a much happier person for it.
2. Facebook helps me stay connected to these friends now.

Jan 06, 2011, 06:04PM PST | 0 comments | 8 cheers