11.11.11

When I was growing up, catching the clock at 11:11 was a sign of good luck. We would be driving down the road, laughing and fighting and singing, and my little sister would catch a glimpse at the numbers all lined up in a row on the dash and squeal out "11:11, make a wish!" Like magic, everyone in the car would close their eyes tight, purse lips together, go silent for a moment, and wish as hard as we could for something to come true.

After the moment passed, the wish unspoken, we'd continue with life as it had been unfolding before. Giggles would emerge from our lips as friends told rehearsed jokes. One of us would snort from the stupidity of it and the laughter would grow into a roar  as the clock just kept ticking. 11:12 -- 11:11 would be forgotten.

But that wish? It would remain as a whisper in your heart.

Today is 11.11.11. A lucky day. So much more than that beloved lucky minute. And with Christmas spirit beginning to fall upon us, it seems like the appropriate start to such a magical time of year. For today is a good day for wishing. For dreaming about the future. For being thankful for what we've accomplished and the country that we live in. For loving the moments we're living in right now and the memories we're making.

Today I have plenty of wishes. And while most of them are probably selfish, many of them are truly meant for beauty and happiness in the future. For me, and for my family. So today, 11.11.11, a day that only happens once, I hope that you take a moment to appreciate the shorter days that are surrounding us. Memorize the feelings and excitement that are upon us and reflect about yet another year coming to a close. It's good stuff.

Oh, and don't forget to make a wish. 11:11 on 11.11.11? The most magical moment of all. Don't miss it.