Life And Loss

As I have gotten older, life has become more about loss and how to deal with it than anything else. I have lost six friends in nine months and I believe they become more painful with each passing one. Contrary to the times, none have been COVID-19 related. Three died from cancer, one from a genetic heart condition, and two from being lifelone alcoholics. The two dying from alcoholism probably hurt more than anything as I tried to help both of them get the professional help they needed. The odds are astronoimical that I lose that many friends in a years time as I am only in my mid-50's. I have fond memories of all of my friends that I have lost and it is those memories that keep them alive for me. I have thought about them often this year and I tell stories about them frequently and I believe it would make them happy to know that they can still make me laugh. I have often heard that laughter is the best medicine and I have definitely put that to the test over the past nine months.

The Death of Steve

I found out about a month ago that my old roommate "Steve" passed away over a year ago. I wanted to take this opportunity to write a memorial for him because he was a unique character if there ever was one. Most of his legendary exploits revolved around his use of alcohol and God knows I have enough stories to tell. He reminded me a lot of the "Samurai" character that John Belushi played on Saturday Night Live. Steve was an interior decorator, a chef, a dancer, an outdoorsman, and a dog walker. He also specialized in drunken road trips where he did all of the drinking. Steve basically had a good heart and he did the best he could do which I guess is all you can expect from someone. I lost touch with Steve the last couple of years of his life but I don't think he changed much. Dealing with Steve could be a drain at times and could for damn sure be aggravating but I should have done a better job of keeping in touch. Steve knew I wanted to be a writer and he always suggested that I write about him because he was so fascinating. I wrote a lot of stories about him but I don't think he knew it. It is time to cue up AC/DC's "Have a Drink On Me." To Steve! Salud!