13th April 1955 - 17th November 2022
“People die all the time. Life is a lot more fragile than we think. So you should treat others in a way that leaves no regrets. Fairly, and if possible, sincerely. It's too easy not to make the effort, then weep and wring your hands after the person dies.”
This week I attended the funeral of a dear friend. It was a sad occasion, but Dave's grieving family could take comfort from the many people there who loved and cared about him. He died too young, aged 67, the same age as me, and his passing has prompted me to reflect on our friendship.
I met Dave when was 17, on a youth hostelling holiday in the Lake District. We kept in touch, sharing over the years our triumphs and disasters, offering support in times of joy and sadness. We knew we cared about each other. My only regret is that I did not get chance to say goodbye.
Funerals are too often attended by people who do have regrets, didn't keep in touch, didn't make their peace and didn't take the time and and trouble to treat people properly. It's too late once someone has gone.
Writing prompt:
- Who do you need to 'make and effort' for? Write a list of people who you have not been in touch with for a while who would appreciate a friendly word. Choose one and write them a letter.
- Do you have any regrets about the way you treated someone who is no longer here? Set a timer for six minutes and write about what happened and how you feel.
- 'Life is more fragile than we think.' Write for six minutes in response to this thought.
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