renniw52: Getting old sucks and I don't like it
Rich, Steven King, the writer, has a notable quote.
"Get busy living, or get busy dying"
Most will remember that, from the movie, "The Shawshank Redemption".
My closest friend of 50 years, received a diagnosis of a type of blood leukemia. He was sent home, only to have a simple nose bleed, two days later. He almost bled out in his living room, before the ambulance arrived.
He had a balloon inserted in his nose, for two weeks. If they took it out, he would bleed to death. He was admitted to some hospice facility. I was not allowed to see him, by his wife's asking. Not from malice, because Judy, did not want me to see what "Get busy dying" did to Peter.
He lost 120 pounds, he used to look like Jonathan Winters, rotund, and always happy. We were brothers in arms, until the end. We were flying, ( piloting ) the week before his news.
Why am I writing this to you? Because I can read the minutia in your writings. It is leaning towards the secondary part of King's quote.
You have a lot to be thankful for, as a husband, father, grandfather, served your country, general all around, not much of a pain in the ass. Had a great Dad. I am a quasi friend, what more can you ask for?
That is a monumental achievement these days. So get busy helping people, in any way you can. Go talk to a homeless person. Chances are, they'll be veterans. You don't have to give them money. Give them respect. They also, have a story.
Volunteer at a hospital, or extended care facility. At least you'll be close to help, if you get caught up, in the later part of the quote. Everyone likes a helper.
Recognition, is more valuable to people, that know the true value, of richness. Money, toys, etc... come & go. Recognition, is a lifetime of remembrance, to more people than you'll ever know.
I am 30 years younger than Peter was. To look at him you would never know. Everyone claims under such swift circumstances, it was better that way.
BS!! He died a violent death. If it were my horses, dogs, cats, I could have them euthanized mercifully.
But not us humans. Nope, they want every last bit of blood sucking insurance, blah, blah, they can get their hands on.
Plus, Judy knew I had medicine for Pete, when this time arrived, as he had, for me. She also knew, we would follow through. In the end, she regretted her decision. A wife's love for her husband, is not something to be trifled with. I told her I realized that.
As quick as I lost 1/3 of my life's happiness, Rich. It could happen to you & yours all to easily.
So, GET BUSY LIVING!!
Don't EVER forget the villanelle by Dylan Thomas;
I'm with Dylan, & Rodney
Be well, live well, & treat others better