Mortality

Men were born to die. Morbid, I know, but true.

A stark reminder today of how limited one's time in this world at a funeral wake for R's grandfather. The fatigue was obvious in his eyes. The sadness telling in his demeanor. I was glad to know that at least he was spared having the passing of his grandpa come as a shock. It is always harder to come to grips with an unexpected departure of a loved one. Both my grandparents and my youngest aunt left us with little or no warning. Somehow, I think I still blame myself for not being by my grandma's side when she exhaled for a final sigh. How could she not sigh? Her grandson wasn't with her, the family circle incomplete.

R, my deepest condolences. I can empathise with you as I know you were close to your grandpa as I was to my grandparents. Here's a favourite line of yours dedicated back to you:

"What you do in life echoes on in eternity."

Take heart that your grandpa will live on in the way you treat your friends with sincerity, your warm personality, your love of life, your openness, gentle maturity and generous spirit. Surely he played no small part in nurturing these qualities of yours.

Remember, my friend, our thoughts are with you in this dark hour. Take care, take heed and, once again, take heart.