On a recent 3 week hiatus in Florida my husband and I looked up friends from our younger days. When we met this couple we were in our late teens and they were in their mid 30’s (her) and late 40’s (him).
They were a lively couple … engaging, fun and full of antics. We liked spending time with them and whenever we visited Florida during winter we always looked them up as they wintered there. Over the past 45 years we’ve seen them about 3-4 times in Florida and my husband a couple more times when visiting the area where they had another home. So it was natural to contact them once our hiatus was organized to arrange a visit. They were as enthusiastic to see us as we were them.
Sadly things didn’t turn out as we’d planned and hoped. When we arrived for our visit he was in hospital due to a bad fall so we missed him. And she was distracted, as anyone would be, so the visit was short and felt incomplete.
We left feeling quite sad that we’d not been in touch more often. And a bit upset that we’d missed their company over the years. Their overall health seems precarious so anything could or could not happen. The years got away from all of us and we can’t get that back. At this point time isn’t on anyone’s side and I suppose all we can do now is to call as frequently as we can. Time lost is a sad thing.
Until the next time.
Who among us can't relate to this? I've noticed (as I've gotten older) that reaching out to people I no longer see on a regular basis is more important than ever before. I suppose the clock ticks louder with every birthday. Our circumstances change and family/work obligations cut into our social life. We do have to make a special effort and you've inspired me to write about a lost friendship.
So sorry to hear about your friends. In this age of 'high tech' you'd think keeping in touch would be simple. Unfortunately, day to day living gets in the way, time plays it's trick on us and before we realize it life.as flown by. I know it seems 'things' get i the way of intentions