The call came. Afriend died. It was unexpected. Our friend had been living with cancer for several years but was managing well.We’re not sure what happened. There was an accident.Ahead injury.Clots formed.After release from thehospital, all seemed fine. Then pain, clots, more treatment. All seemed to improve, until cardiacarrest stopped him in his tracks. Gone in a moment. A familyleft behind to pick up the pieces.
I am haunted by the sequence ofhow it came to be; thewhat ifsroll through my head at night. There may be many factors involved in my friend’s death; cancer treatment compromises the body in every way. A traumatic accident is a hammer to the nail. But still.
I was shaken again-yet again– with the recent synagogue shooting in California. A woman was murderedin front of her husband and daughter in a house of faith. Fearfor the growing hate creeping around the world and the sudden violenceleaveus on edge. It’s another reminder that life can change in an instant.
I am reminded again that every moment counts. Petty grievances that seem important today mean nothing on a short leash of time.Be less wistful about what could have been and more wishful about what can be and pursue those dreams.Those who lost their lives will probably remind you to stop bemoaning lost opportunities. Create new ones while you have the time, ability and resources.
Don’t let others’ criticisms and judgments stand in the way of you pursuing your goals and dreams. They may be envious which is not your problem. Stick to your guns; hold your head high and trot on with confidence.
Never fret about growing old. You have been given the gift of more time. How lucky you are!
Life can turn on a dime; treasure each day. Time is priceless.
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