There’s no time like the present to express love

Today would have been my father’s 86th birthday. He died far too early (in my opinion) back in 1991. It is said that every person dies twice; first physically, when you pass away and second when the memory of you fades from other people’s minds or whenever all those who knew you die too.

I can assure you that my Dad’s memory is very much alive and well in those of us that were lucky enough to have known him. What does sometimes make me sad is when I think about those who never got a chance to know him or who were too young to remember. That includes two of my sons and my daughter-in-law. Fortunately, my stepfather has ‘stepped’ into that void and filled it remarkably well.

The most important lessons I learned when my father passed away so early and quickly are that life is fleeting, to cherish every moment, and absolutely tell others how much you care and love them. Don’t wait, don’t think it’s weird or corny, don’t be shy, and certainly don’t feel embarrassed. You never know how many chances you will get or if another opportunity will ever present itself. There is no time like the present to express love to someone you care about.

Happy birthday, Dad. I love you and miss you very, very much. Rick