When we moved from Minnesota, we left a lot behind. We have missed family, friends, and acquaintances every day since we left. There are many things we miss about Minnesota, but even before we moved, we learned our new home is located in an area with very good people. Some of them have become friends.
The move south didn’t happen until July 2021, and before that time, we had the opportunity to meet our next-door neighbors over the phone when we needed some help organizing access to our home for roofers the month prior to our move. The people we relied on are named Bill and Sherri.
The day we arrived, there was a welcome sign on our light post, and our new neighbors were outside to greet us. Since that day, there have been countless times when our neighbors were there to lend a helping hand.
Bill introduced me to the neighborhood golf group and was instrumental in getting me invited to join the group. I’ve been playing golf with that group every Monday and Friday since I was invited.
We’ve been invited to holiday parties and neighborhood get-togethers every year since we moved in, most of which were hosted by our neighbors, Bill and Sherri.
Bill is the person who invited me to go with five other guys to do some deep-sea fishing, just a couple of weeks ago. His 80th birthday is just days away.
One of our neighbors hosts a Halloween party every year. Most of the golfing guys and their wives attend the party. Bill and Sherri were there, being themselves. At the end of the night, they went home. Bill got undressed, went to the bathroom, and collapsed. He died that night. Very unexpected. He will be missed.
His passing got me thinking about my life and what time I might have left. None of us can answer that question, so it’s important to enjoy what time we have. I’ve wished since the day I stopped working full-time that I had a better idea of when I might be forced to slow down. If I had a better idea, I’d know how many things I should be doing now, before it’s too late. Unfortunately, there are too many enjoyable things that cost money, so it’s difficult to know how much can be spent, and how much we need to keep in case I live beyond my 80th birthday.
The loss of our friend was completely unexpected, and the first few days after his passing were difficult, a little depressing, but at the same time, eye-opening.
I guess it’s called “the cycle of life,” – we are born, we live our lives, and we die. The end of anyone’s life is difficult for those left behind, but life goes on for the rest, and hopefully, we can all figure out how to go on, despite the loss.
Have A Good Week!
