My buddy Chris is visiting from TN this weekend, and myself, he, his wife Julie and Brian were sitting around talking until the wee hours last night. One of the conversations that came up was about our group of friends and of course the some of the things we’ve been through in the past. In this case notably was the death of our friend Ray, who succumbed to cancer 2 years ago this July. When the doctors knew that Ray was at the point where he could pass at any minute, we all of course received “the call”. Chris immediately went to his boss and said (in so many words) “Look, I’ve got to go to MD for a few days, I have something I have to take care of. I’m leaving tomorrow and will be back as soon as I can”. His boss, like any decent human being should, didn’t have an issue with this, and immediately Chris and Julie were on their way. Well, Ray passed, we went to the funeral, and Chris returned home.
That may seem like a typical story, and I’m sure it’s been repeated many many times before. The part that I think there is something to learn from, and to me was a much needed reminder of how much our friendship means to me and my friends, was this conversation that Chris had with one of his co-workers upon his return: (paraphrased):
[Discussing the trip and the funeral, etc]
…
Co-Worker: “I just can’t believe you just up and left like that.”
Chris: “Why not?”
Co-Worker: “Because…”
Chris: “Because why? You don’t get it, do you?”
Co-Worker: “Get what?”
Chris: “Nevermind.”
Need I say more?