Live your best life today.

I got the chance to re-visit this old cliche recently when a friend and mentor died unexpectedly. Everything comes into focus for me when death touches me personally. I work a little harder to be a better husband, dad, friend, and businessman. I look at the big picture. I take a little better care of myself. I relax and try to let some pressure off myself. I find that I'm acting more understanding, kind, and caring.

When someone I care about dies, somehow their energy stays around and benefits me in all the rights ways.

Waxman,

I could not agree with you more. On May 26th 2007 Memorial Day weekend I lost my Father unexpectedly at 64 years young. I learned so much from him and still felt like I was cut short. For my Father and I had worked together for years. 10 years in a machine shop that my Grandfather started (his Dad) to almost three years together in the carwash business.

My Father did not get to see his first Grandchild. Two weeks after we buried my Father we traveled back to Guatemala to bring home our 8 month old son Aiden John Robb. John after my Father. Needless to say coming home and arriving at the airport with 40-50 people waiting to see him was hard. For I do know that my Father was with us It was just difficult not being able to walk up to him and hand him his Grandson.

The day before he passed away he was with me at the carwash. We were having a good day that day and I was thanking my Father for all the help and support that he has given me and my Wife. He replied back "I don't mind son I enjoy helping anyway I can" and the ending of that final conversation with my Father was me thanking him again and me telling him how much I Lovedhim. His last words to me were "I Love You Too Son" That being said I tell these younger guys working for us to never forget to tell your parents and loved ones "I Love You" because you never know when you may not be able to talk to them again.

But like you said above Waxman I am trying to do the same things you are. For Life is too short and we should thank the Lord for everyday we wake up and can work, be with our families support our community. Waxman from reading your postings and not to have met you in person you sound like a very caring and giving person. I am so sorry for your loss and You, your family and your friends family will be in our prayers. Jeff

Very touching story, Jeff. I lost my dad about twenty years ago, I was only 19. I still miss him today.