Another Birthday Happens Just like That
Tragedy Gives Pause for Reflection on Birthdays
Last year's writing on this day (So, What's the Big Deal about Another Birthday?) spoke of the happy things I look forward to on my birthday.
The piece paid homage to the important people in my life. It revealed how my birthday is remembered by some as the summer solstice, which it's not. It happens to happen the day after that, automatically and just like that, without thinking about it at all. While marking another revolution around the sun for me, today added +1 to n in the formula for determining my years on this earth.
This year, my birthday is pockmarked by the untimely death of a friend with whom I worked for 25 years. A man of my age had his life taken away by a young woman of 25 years. He was driving to a golf game. She was driving while obviously thinking about something else, broadsided my friend's vehicle, flipping it over and killing him instantly.
She's not hurt, but he's gone, just like that.
Friends and family are shocked that he's gone, just like that.
What do we do when a guy goes, just like that?
How does one rationalize the sudden end of life, just like that?
It's my birthday and he's gone, just like that.
How can I celebrate mine when his life is done, just like that?
I will remember him on my birthday for as many more of them that I will be gifted to have. I will remember a friend and colleague, Jack, as the energetic, vivacious, productive and full-of-life person that he was. And I will remember him just like that.
Published by Lorraine Yapps Cohen
I design jewelry free from the constraints of textbook techniques and write non-fiction free from the rigors of technical expression. Chemist by training, creative by spirit, conservative in values, and art... View profile
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17 Comments
Post a CommentSorry for the loss of you friend - but I do want to wish you a belated birthday.
Loraine your poem spoke to me... and I understand the depth of feeling in which it comes from, I wish I could say more, but I send a hug ... how very sorry I am for your loss...
My condolences to you on the loss of your good friend, especially at a time when you should be cheerfully celebrating.
I'm so sorry, Lorraine. If that girl has a conscience, she will be haunted the rest of her life for what she did.
Very sorry to hear of your loss.
That was a terrible experience at any time. I hope you could find some comfort with friends and family.
Death of our loved ones is so difficult. It's always tougher when a loved one is taken from us in such a tragic way. You're in my thoughts & prayers, Lorraine. I agree with Rita - that girl has to live with Jack's death on her shoulders for the rest of her life. That can't be good. Remember the good times!
Physical and spiritual life is the greatest gift of all.
I am so sorry to hear this, Lorraine. I will keep you and all who knew him in my prayers. I will also pray for the young woman who made a terrible mistake. We all make mistakes and hers will be with her the rest of her life. I can't even imagine the guilt she must feel. I'm not condoning careless driving, but I feel bad for her too. May you be comforted by the memories of your friend.
So sorry about your friend. Sometimes we celebrate, sometimes we mourn. There is no rhyme or reason to life is there. You need to hold your day special, though - no matter what.