High School Friends

In April, a high school friend passed away. Although we went our separate ways years ago after college and I hadnt seen him for many years, it hit me pretty hard. It's difficult for his wife and 3 kids as you can imagine. Because we lost touch before he got married, unfortunately I dont know his widow or family. I think if I called her we'd both feel awkward. Though I feel obligated to help, I dont know what she needs and she certainly wouldnt feel comfortable asking help of a stranger. I've heard that there are a lot of people who learn about her husbands passing who call her and it's hard for her to recount the story over and over while she's still in mourning. I guess the best thing I can do at this point is send money. Seems so impersonal though.

I wondered why it is that it hit me so hard; I hadnt seen him for so long. But I realize that the time we were close friends was the time we grew from young teenagers to young adults. That was the time we started driving, going out with girls, preparing for college. Looking back, those years were great. And I remember my friend from those great times, those years of our early adult life. He was always somebody you wanted to have around, who was interested in what you were doing or thinking. And he was a funny guy, really charming. And he could eat eat eat... I'll always have a strong memory of him. Those were really good times, I'm glad we were friends.

I've been getting together with old friends from high school and college since then. Before April, I didnt think it was important. Never thought that I would not have an opportunity to catch up. Now I realize that what seemed like days or months has really been months and years. The rate at which time passes is accellerating, and life is not so long after all. Guess it's time to live life like every day is the last.