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Monday, April 16, 2012

Vivere disce, cogita mori

On Sunday, I had the opportunity to see many wonderful old friends that I hadn’t seen in years. Sadly, there was none of the jumping, squealing, and raucous laughter that usually accompanies such a reunion.

We were at a memorial service for another of our friends, so there were smiles, hugs, and reminiscences, as well as a lot of tears. We lost a wonderful woman; an intelligent, loyal, funny friend; a mother, a sister, and an aunt to her large family. She was insightful, and could see through falsehoods and foolishness from a mile away. We could count on her loyalty and support in anything, and no matter how poorly she felt, she'd always ask how we were doing. She had a talent for comedy, playing the straightwoman with perfect ease, or delivering a line that was so subtly funny that you’d crack up 15 minutes later. We all remember “the look,” a glare our friend could deliver that would anyone in their tracks. There is a lot to miss about our friend.


The majority of us are in our mid-50s, and we all consider ourselves in the prime of life, give or take a few aches and a memory lapse here and there. Our dear friend was barely 53 years old when she passed away, an event which struck us all as completely unfair, undeserved, and untimely. What about the rest of her life? Why doesn’t she get that part, too? No answer.

Of course we promised to spend more time with each other, and to stop taking all that we have for granted. Soon, all our good intentions will fade, as we get caught up in life and overwhelmed by everyday demands. But we won’t forget our friend.

Katrina

3 comments:

  1. Learn to live, good advice indeed, death comes too soon for many.
    Sincere condolences on your loss.
    Best wishes, Susan

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  2. I am so very sorry for the loss of your friend.

    I hope that you, and all of her friends and family, find comfort in the memories of what she was to you, what you shared, and how much you love her.

    It is so easy to forget as we get drawn down by the annoying little details of our lives that each day is a gift, and that there are no promises that we will get another one.

    I'm in one of those stupid places where I actually need this lesson right now; I'm sorry that I was reminded by the passing of your friend.

    my deepest condolences,
    Anita
    xo

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  3. Katrina, so very very sorry about the loss of your dear friend. She sounds like she must have been an incredible woman. I hope the special memories you have of her will help you through the difficult days ahead! Praying for your strength! Hugs!

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