Being present

I was thinking today, as I was driving home from work, that too often situations in my life have ended up the same.  By that I mean, I have found myself in multiple situations where, being the new kid on the block, I felt "less than," because I had not "paid my dues," so to speak.  And I know I am not the only one.  Growing up, when I moved to a new town, I didn't feel like an insider for YEARS.  Similarly, at work, I have felt at times like I didn't belong, because I wasn't a part of the original group from the "old" office.  At church, I have felt that way, because I wasn't part of the original group that started the ministry.  I know I am not unique in feeling this way. 
I believe that, too often, we focus on what has been, and not the present circumstances.  Sunday school classes have plaques hanging on the walls, listing the former members of the class.  Colleges and universities name buildings after dead people.  Statues are built to honor important figures from the past.  Hallways and floors in hospitals are named for past doctors and nurses, etc.  We spend our lives thinking about what has been and what occurred.  But, you know, I bet not one of those dead people cares that a building was named after them.  In fact, I wonder what they would say if they had the chance to come back and say a few words.  Ironically, I bet they would say something like, "Tell them you love them while you have the chance.  Don't wait until it's too late to appreciate the people in your life....."
Don't get me wrong.  I think it is important to remember our heritage, so that we may appreciate the work and sacrifice that brought us to where we are today.  I just think that appreciating the "now" and the people living their lives now, making a difference now, serving, loving, sharing, and caring, now, is very important, and can get lost in the towering shadows of yesteryear's glory.
My goal - to appreciate the people in my life right now, and not wait until they are gone to let them know how much they mean to me, and how thankful I am for their presence in my life.  And also to honor the past, but not let that honor overshadow my first goal of being present.