“Death was always ironic. Young death the most ironic of all.” From Darkest Fear by Harlan Coben.
Just got back to our gate after spending Christmas in Tulsa with our daughter. We of course had a wonderful time.
However, there is a flip side. A drive that long, about 1200 miles round trip, allows much time to think and reminisce.
And I had a lot of food for thought.
Since October I’ve lost 3 important people in my life to the grim reaper. Two were expected…..one was not.
When a friend or loved one dies……a little of you dies with them.
I don’t believe I’m a fatalist, but at times I trod the path and when I do, that disturbing tendency to dwell on tragedy grips me by the throat.
I remember the last time I saw each of them, what they said and how they moved. The atmosphere was ripe with fun and joy. No thoughts of death. Only of life.
Now, as I age and share time with friends and loved ones…..at the end of the day, I wonder if I will ever see them on this side again.
I wonder if they realize how much they mean to me. I don’t think they do. Sad.
“This is not the end. This is not even the beginning of the end. It is, however, the beginning of the beginning.” – Winston Churchill.
Texas Heat 
As always, I enjoy your blog. Good stuff, and a bit courageous to bring it up. The old “half full” or “half empty” adage applies and as we get closer to the end of the road…hopefully, we can appreciate, stop and smell the roses. Don’t get it in your head that I am getting soft. 🙂
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You are an old softy and we both know it. It’s a good thing.
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I think this is something that seems to hit all of us as we reach a certain age and see our peers/family passing on. I lost a husband at 42 and from that point on have told others how I feel as often as possible. I even tell managers at stores about a kind employee, etc. I guess we all want to have our “work” done and our desk cleared for our time to pass over. Morbid but real. Even though we’ve never met in person you and Gabby have become my friends because I like what I read and know some about your life. Great article Bob.
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As always Vickie, you manage to make me feel special. Thank you for that. Our writing is the only gauge we have between us to take each other’s measure. I sense that I have a good feel for the type of person you are and while it amazes me that you find me worthy, I do embrace that sentiment and hang on to it for dear life.
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Yes, so many times we forget how important family and friends are and you and Gabby are dear friends.
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The miles between us change nothing. We are your friends.
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Woops ,forgot, you and Gabby are important to us.
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Thank you Harry. As always your comments do get a reaction. I don’t have to tell you. You and Joan are dear to us. Even though you are an Eagles fan.
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They will only know if you tell them.
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