In Celebration of a Great Man

What would you do if you finally had it all and you really got it and you'd have to pay the price of losing all your family and friends? I felt that way attending a funeral for a long time friend that I hadn't seen in years that gave me some advice in my younger days. I was out of work and couldn't pay my bills. I felt desperate about losing everything I owned. I told him my problems and he said, "Let's get a beer and go in the garage."He told me the most important thing is to take care of your wife and kids and everything else will take care of itself. You know he was right and it showed by how many attended his celebration of a great life.Not too many people were mourning and they all had similar stories like mine.He'd give you the shirt off his back and then some,just to help you fix something on your car or tv or what have you and never ask for anything in return.He had grandkids and great grandkids and was proud of everyone of them.He volunteered for any good cause even after he retired. He was never without something to do for anyone that needed a hand.His most enjoyable thing to do was sit and watch tv in his favorite recliner drinking a can of beer. Many times he'd fall asleep with his grandkids on his lap.He was loved by so many people and yet he was just a simple man with no outward ego.Even when he was close to his maker he still had a sense of humor.He wanted someone to pull his finger and you know the rest.That wasn't his biggest surprise and this one was unbelieveable.He said if anyone showed up at his funeral and took the time to stay they deserved a lottery ticket because maybe they'd get lucky and win.As the usher gave me a ticket I thought to myself he truly won the lottery of life.He was 81 years old and you'd never know it.I think because he always had a smile on his face-----------

Autumn setting in

Ever notice how dark it gets when winter's approaching. It's a time to reflect as the leaves change their colors to bright yellow,orange and red. It's also a time to travel inward and see the mysteries awaken inside of you.I become more in a dream-like state contemplating what's ahead.Time seems to slow down for that moment and  I can actually view my life from past to future. Those long gone times of happiness and sadness seem to fill my cup.The wisdom  I have now could have saved me from so many wrong turns but that's what allowed me to become the person I am now.I am greatful for this beautiful life and having someone to share my ups and downs for without my wonderful wife their would be so little to cherish.