LONG TIME PASSING…
Whenever I think about people I have known these days, I realize that almost all of them are gone. I still stay in regular contact with a few recent friends—folks in their 70s and 80s—whar I see via the internet, but almost everyone else is just a memory. It feels impossible. Of course, I have current acquaintances and neighbors, but for various reasons, I hardly stay in contact or concern myself with most of them. Where have all the people gone?
I can easily remember the names and faces of my early schoolmates, from third grade through high school. I can recall many of my college friends and teachers. I can even remember the names and faces of dozens of former students and colleagues. It feels as if I am living in the past instead of the present. Or, more starkly, my past has become my present. A part of the problem is that I can no longer drive around town or do other activities on my own. The TV is almost my only way to stay connected to the present. I watch news, movies, sporting events, and try to write various items for my 50-plus personal blog column.
So, what am I trying to say here? In a way, these are just the sad ramblings of a 93-year-old guy who is no longer sure of himself or what he’s become. The big upside is that I am still in love with my wonderful wife Mari, and she feels the same about me. And make no mistake, this is a huge upside—perhaps enough to shut me up and stop my complaints. I am reminded of the final words from that great old song from the 1940s, “September Song”: “The days dwindle down to a precious few, September, November. These precious days I spend with you, these precious days I spend with you.” Thank you, my Love!!