Yesterday I learned that a friend I work with died over the weekend. He wasn’t sick (that any of us knew) and he was the sort of person who always had a smile and time to share some stories and laughs in the office. Now, in the office, his empty cubicle holds only his personal affects, which will be returned to his widow in the next few days. It is a testament to the man who is missing. All of us remain on the verge of tears but we continue our work helping others.
It’s simply a reminder, especially in this time of year when we acknowledge our gratitude for all we have and all we hold dear, how fast it all can end. There is likely to be no warning, no time to say your goodbyes. So, say what you need to say now. Be generous with praise and hold back on criticisms. Be generous with kindness and compassion and take your bad moods out on a piece of exercise equipment. Kiss deeply and passionately, give long hugs, and smile frequently. You don’t know who will be gone tomorrow.
In the spirit of the season, I’m thankful for all of you who read and follow along with my words and adventures. I’m grateful for a busy few days ahead of me, including tonight when I will pick up our organic, free range, GMO free turkey, get it brining, and then head off to see PUSCIFER! Tomorrow I work and then get home to remove the turkey from the brine and let it dry in the fridge and continue with preparations for Thursday. On Friday, after eating a large breakfast, we will head out to see some of the holiday themed sights of Denver, including the Grand Illumination, a free day at a local art museum, and ending the evening with a ride on the Polar Express. So, lots to be thankful for… and time to reflect on just how short life is and how we should make the most of it while we can. I’ve also found so much forgiveness in my heart for past slights and am feeling a turn towards my spirituality, towards the teachings of the Buddha, and a desire to begin taking better care of myself. There’s no time like the present to begin all the good things.