I had had a non event day, nothing memorable, until I got the news.
A close friend had gone down to the inlet to swim in the ocean I knew and on the evening news the radio announced a drowning at that beach.
Dread gripped my heart, and I tried to phone and confirm if it was my friend, Mark. I left messages, and my heart felt dry like paper.
Hours passed and I started to realize all the conversations I still wanted to have with him, especially one conversation where I told him he was like a younger brother to me, and I really liked to spend time with him, and that I loved him.
I felt real regret that I had never had that conversation.
Then the phone rang, it was him, and he was fine. Relief washed over me like a wave as I took a deep breath. I made plans then to have that conversation with Mark, and I did.
**********
I think we all have a Mark, or someone like Mark who is important to us. I don’t think it is just a guy thing that we neglect or shy away from expressing thankfulness and caring for friends.
Let’s not stop with family this week, let’s let our extended family know that we love them too!
Your heart will feel better for it, that summer night years ago, mine sure did.
I learned a lesson that night.
*****
Thanks for reading, for taking a moment. I really have appreciated all the “likes” and comments this week. 🙂
I have included a beautiful Nat King Cole classic today – smile. He sings so velvety.
Life and Random Thinking 
As human beings, we have such a strong tendency towards complacency, and constantly need to be reminded of life’s impermanence. Thank you for the helpful reminder and advice.
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I agree and thank you for your encouragement
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A true and timely reminder to not take people for granted. Great post.
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Thanks for your encouragement
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Nothing is worse than thinking the worst, unless it actually is the worst ~ and the feeling of relief when things turn out OK (at least is a narrower perspective) is does autocorrect where your attention lies in life. Glad to hear all was OK.
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I am so glad your friend is okay & that you had the conversation you so wanted to have.
I learned this lesson a number of years ago, to not miss the opportunity to let those in your life know just how much they mean to you. I wrote about it awhile back, prompted through the Daily Prompt. Have a read if you like:
https://lymart.wordpress.com/2013/09/06/daily-prompt-regrets-ive-had-a-few/?preview=true&preview_id=488&preview_nonce=3e86917e0a&post_format=standard
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I will, thanks for sharing
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Great post!
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Thanks he is a wonderful friend
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Reblogged this on Cat in the Cactus and commented:
A great post from “dfolstad58” and a reminder to tell someone you love them before it’s too late. I Reblogged this post because …
http://catinthecactus.com/2015/09/22/how-to-pay-the-reblog-blessing-forward/
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Reblog is a great compliment, thanks
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