Loss

Every so often, I have an off post. Like, I find it difficult to be funny and really write from the heart. I've been having a very hard time writing for the last week due to the shocking death of an old, dear friend. The specifics are too sad and heart-wrenching to discuss, and this isn't really the best place to discuss them anyway.

Loss really makes one question their own path. I keep thinking about the here and now. Life is short and a gift and it's up to us to make every minute count. Loss also makes us reflect and second guess ourselves. "Did I tell my friend how much I loved and appreciated her?" "If I had been better about keeping in touch, would this have happened?" "Should I have known that she needed help and why wasn't I there to help her?"

I guess this will be my sappy, sad post. It's my reminder to seize the day and live life to the fullest. It's a reality check that we only get one go at this thing called life. And it's my mission to be sure to tell the people that I love how much they matter to me and how thankful I am to have them in my life. Take a minute or two today to tell your friends and family how much you need them and love them. Stop and thank the people that make a difference in your life and let them know how truly appreciated they are. The only good that come from a tragedy like this is the reaching out and reconnecting that happens in our quest for answers, comfort and understanding.

To quote the AT&T ad campaign from the 80s: "Reach out, reach out and touch someone. Call up, call up and just say hi!" Touch base with an old friend this week; you'll be glad you did.