As you get older, you start reflecting more on life. You’ve collected a wide range of experiences and memories over the years to draw from. I don’t think a day goes by without coming across something that triggers one of those experiences or memories. Today, I happened to be out on a morning run and passed by the new hospital in our neighborhood. As I was running by the Emergency Entrance, I was reminded of the fact that a friend of mine from long ago had passed away last week. Although I had rarely seen him over the past 30+ years, I knew from other family members that he was fighting cancer. While in Florida last December, I had the opportunity to stop by his house and see him. I was only able to spend a few short hours there but I’m glad I had the chance to see him one last time. Considering the struggle he was going through both physically and emotionally, he had the greatest attitude you could imagine. He didn’t wallow in sadness or complain about the situation he had to deal with. He just appreciated the time he still had and enjoyed it with his family and friends. What a blessing he must have been to his family and friends during that time. I don’t know if I would be able to carry myself through a time like that with so much class.
We don’t often appreciate the love and friendship we have in our lives. The struggles of day-to-day living smother our human spirit. We worry so much about making the latest deadline and paying the latest bill that we lose sight of the important stuff – the spouse, child, friend or coworker that is right next to us. If they mean something to you, let them know. In some small way, show them they matter. A thank you, a handshake, a pat on the back, or…
Just give them a hug.
