Distance (both ways) and perspective with the passing of people
Recently, I went to two visitations in a week. The first was for a co-worker who died at age 37 from cancer. The second was the father of a friend who died at the age of 82 from complications resulting from a fall. Funny thing is, these funerals didn't make me question or dread my mortality. My studies and embracing of Eastern philosophies (specifically Zen Buddhism), have me accepting death wherever and whenever it comes. No, these two passing's gave me a different bit of perspective, which didn't really come together until last night when myself, my niece, and my wife were celebrating her birthday. When the check was brought out, my niece made the comment "The waiter probably didn't ask about separate checks thinking I'm the daughter."
Years ago I came to a decision that I could never be a good father, so I did not want to have children. Even my niece's comment doesn't make me regret it. What it does though is make clearer how I need to forge new relationships and work on existing ones. The folds in nicely with my post about gaining a new friend Monday. In my past, I embraced being a bit of a loner and social outcast. The present has given me opportunities to work on relationships of all levels, and with work and effort, the future will enrich me with friends and family.
No, I'll never be a good father. But I do plan on being a good uncle. Thanks for that bit of perspective Torrey.
Posted via email from Digital Eccentric