Life is short.
I just learned a high school friend passed away from a tough battle with cancer.
Sam was a son, dad, friend, artist, athlete and loved life. It felt like he was living life on his terms. Here’s a video he made last Fall highlighting his art.
I have 2 simple thoughts as I reflect on this news:
- Independence. On July 3rd, I wrote about finding freedom and independence. 2 days later, July 5th, Sam found true and complete freedom. He knows an independence that none of us know on this side of life. This may not comfort his wife and 3 children, but it remains true. Sam believed as I believe.
- You only live once – RISK. It’s cliché, I know, but when you are 18 years old – 38 seems old. Now that I’m 38, 40 no longer sounds over the hill. I still have a lot of dreams, plans and goals. I can’t wait to make them happen. However, life guarantees me nothing. I’m in the midst of risking everything…it’s scary, but today it feels right.
RIP Galen Forest (Sam) Wagner.
Your words are lovely Andy. Hope to see you at the services.
Amy – thank you. I plan to be there for one if not both. Hope to see you too.
Amy – Great to see you this past week. Horrible circumstances, but good to see you. Thank you for the comment.
Andy, very nice thoughts and a loving tribute to your friend, Sam. Too many people don’t appreciate each day that they have here on earth. I must admit that there are times I have to remind myself. I have on my bulletin board a sort of poem that I try to read everyday. It’s called “The Best Day of My Life” by G.M. Lousignont. If you haven’t seen it before, you might check it out. Sort of puts things in perspective.
http://blessingsforlife.com/favforwards/bestdayofmylife.htm
Crystal
Crystal – thank you. I appreciate you sharing the poem. I hadn’t seen it before…a great reminder to “live” every day.