"What a wonderful life I've had; I only wish I'd realized it sooner." ~ ColetteI spent the day yesterday with some people, whom I love very much, going through their dad's belongings. It's really overwhelming when you lose one of your parents. Trust me, I know. Everywhere I looked yesterday, I saw reminders of the man that I knew as my friend. And, once again, I was reminded of just how fragile, and brief, that life can be.
Not long ago I began removing negativity and bullshit from my life. It was all due to my realization that life is way too short and there is no sense in wasting it on things and people that don't contribute to my happiness. It was actually very liberating. Now, while I am still perfecting the art of bullshit eradication, I am much happier and I have a deeper appreciation for life and the people that I have chosen to travel with on life's journey.
Life really is a journey. A journey that includes people. I have been fortunate, in that, I have always been surrounded by people who love me. That was the case yesterday. I tried to return some of the love that their father showed me and my family during his lifetime. Because that's what's important. Well, at least, that's what's important to me.
So, yesterday, we laughed, we cried and we shared memories of someone who journeyed with us in life. As for today, I thought about my life and how others will remember me when I'm gone. Ever the control freak that I am, I have taken some of the guess work out of how I will be remembered. I recently told my wife that, when I die, I want to be cremated and then I want my ashes to be magnetized and put inside Etch-A-Sketch's which are to be given to everyone who attends my memorial service. You see, that way, even after I'm gone, my friends and family can still play with me. Pretty cool, huh? Actually, I'm not kidding. I want people to remember me for making them laugh. For the guy who brought some laughter into their lives even when the world seemed to have gone mad.
Life is short. Wear your party pants.
Be Well.
Bill
