For Jim

On the occasion of his 90th birthday, my best friend Jim's sister asked me to write a few words for the scrapbook she was making.  Since friendships like ours are so precious, I'd like to share with you what I wrote.

I’m having lunch today with my best friend Jim.  We’ll probably go to a tavern where Jim will fuss about which beer to order.  He likes draft, of course.  A man of firm opinions, big and small, he doesn’t tease me anymore when I order a diet coke.

Jim is my partner at the bridge table and my partner in politics.  We have a lot to talk about.  Behind the conversation is my deep appreciation for this wonderful man.  He knows my family secrets because he prepared my will as a favor.  He’s seen me without makeup when he came to my rehab room on a lonely Saturday night.

The most important feeling in life is to feel included, right?  That’s what Jim and Phyllis have given to me.  Sharing a bit of this crazy life with Jim, how lucky is that?

I say “Thank God for Jim”, knowing that will prompt a very big laugh from this firm atheist.

Not in Time

There is a drug now for treating cystic fibrosis that is going to make it a "manageable disease." Not the death sentence anymore.  The results have been so promising that patients and even doctors are often in tears.  The FDA has leaped forward with approval.

I know a family -- a very rich and socially prominent couple -- who lost two children to cystic fibrosis.  Their lives were short and very difficult.  Another "lucky" child was spared.  Another was adopted.  (I guess not tempting fate.)

As I read the news today, my heart went out to that mom and dad.  They are oldsters now like me.  I'm sure they are thrilled with the news.  Maybe they will pull out a picture of their lost children and tell them about what time has made possible. I imagine it will be with a very bittersweet smile.