One of my former college professors died this week. She was also a dear friend and mentor. We’d kept in touch for many years, but I hadn’t seen her in about five years. She was only 68 so I guess I just assumed she would be around a while longer.
Another old friend recently turned 90. I’m amazed that she is still relatively healthy and active. Still drives. Still volunteers one day a week at a local museum.
Two friends I have known since 1972 will be married in a few months. Both lost their previous spouses years ago. We’ve all kept in touch in a variety of ways over the years and are now Facebook friends.
A high school friend posted a picture of her great-grandchild yesterday. I quickly searched my files and found a photo of us together in 1967 and showed it to my husband.
A couple I’ve known since childhood celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary last week.
Yesterday I had a brief encounter with a woman I’ve known for about fifteen years. Because of COVID, we hadn’t seen each other in about a year, but we quickly found ourselves enjoying a lively conversation with lots of laughter. That’s the beauty of knowing someone for many years. A long history of conversations and shared experiences compensates for unexpected absences. And of course, email and social media options make it even easier to maintain friendships from a distance. I haven’t seen one of my high school classmates in person in about two years, but we communicate on Facebook almost daily.
My one regret regarding my older friends is that some are now too old to communicate. They are in care facilities far away and no longer online or able to talk on the phone or write letters. They are still alive and enjoying their limited existence, but I’ve lost access to them. Just another reminder to enjoy my circle of friends while I can and to communicate with them as often as possible. None of us knows what changes tomorrow will bring.