The Force is Strong in Our Memories
Reflections on Growth, Fatherhood, and a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Every year on May 4th, the world turns its eyes to the stars, whispering a familiar blessing. For many, it’s a day for movie marathons and trivia. But for me, as I look up at Our Night Sky, it’s a day that marks the passage of time, a way to measure the seasons of my life through the lens of a camera and the lives of my three sons.
A Long Time Ago...
Looking back at these photos, I see more than just costumes and plastic lightsabers. I see a time when my backyard was the forest moon of Endor and a simple sunset was a binary star system on Tatooine.
Today, things look a little different. My sons have grown into young men. The lightsabers have been moved to storage, and the capes have been traded for “cooler” pursuits. If I asked them to suit up for a photo today, I’d likely get a polite eye-roll or a “Maybe later, Dad.”
They are in a new season, one of independence and finding their own way in the galaxy. And as hard as it is for a father to let go of the “director” role, I realize this is the natural order of things.
“Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter.” — Yoda
There is a deep spirituality in the transition of parenthood. Just as we look to the night sky and marvel at the vastness of the universe, I look at my sons and marvel at the plan laid out for them.
My faith tells me that while I may no longer be the one guiding their every step or setting up their “scenes,” they are never truly alone. The same Creator who hung the stars provides a light for their path. The “Force” we played at as children is, in reality, a much deeper connection to purpose, love, and the divine.
So, this May 4th, I won’t be sad that they’ve outgrown the costumes.
I’ll look at the stars tonight and send up a prayer for them, that they keep their sense of wonder, that they face their own “Empires” with courage, and that they always remember the way home.
Happy Star Wars Day to all the fathers, sons, and dreamers out there.
Until next time! Keep looking up.
-g