A combination

I think that in order to truly visualize the future, one must focus on the present. I believe that we see our future in our lover's eyes, and in the laughter of our children. I see the future when I remember the tears on my grandmothers face at my grandfathers wake as she watched the home videos and pictures flow past. The future is a combination. It is now and then. It is the present mixed with the past. I believe that one thing we will always have is our memories, as long as we do not try to hold to this life past the time that God has given to us. I do not think He has meant for us to live with the pain of losing our memories to ancient age and senility, but rather to keep them as we go peaceably home into His welcoming arms.
In my future I see my husband with wrinkles and gray hair. I see my children growing children of their own. I see that my dreams have come to fruition in them. I see no more battles and terror, but peace.
Then, for the true life that follows death, I see my grandparents and my parents and my first love waiting to welcome me home. I see no more tears, no more sorrow, no more pain. I see watching as my son does the same things that I have tried to do and succeding where I have failed.
I think that the future is the present, just with more memories added to those I hold so dear now. I see my grandchild's first words added to those of my son, and to the brother that I raised. I see more kisses with my husband, and more moonlight strolls, and more tickling. I see so many beautiful things.
As for my goals for the future, I see one thing. I see the ability to effect change. I see having the ability to help people, really help them. I see helping to put an end to rape and abuse. I see less pain.
Don't get me wrong, I don't think that I will have an end to tears this side of heaven. I am sure I will struggle then as I do now, but I see myself having the ability to choose my own battles, rather than having them chosen for me.