Don’t Wait
One of our close friends has been sick. Due to life's many circumstances, we haven't seen them much in the past year. Then, as a result of my neck/cognitive injury, it felt like two months of my life were stripped away from me. Recently, while I was out of state for work, I learned that my friend's condition had worsened. I was excited to connect with my friend upon my return.
Yesterday's plan was to spend time with my kids at Northern Vessel, then text my friend to see if we could come visit later in the day. However, while sitting with my kids at NV, I was stunned by the news that my friend had passed away. I sat there, stunned. Sarah broke out in tears. I tried to keep my composure for the kids, but the truth is, I felt broken.
It's well-documented on this blog over the years that I have one specific fear in life: regret. Above all other things, I fear regret. I'm not sure there's any other way to say this, but I'm probably going to take this regret to the grave with me. This one feels soul-crushing.
Yes, life happens. Yes, tragedy lurks around every corner. Yes, circumstances in and around our lives make things complicated. Yes, we're all too busy. All that is true, but don't wait. Never wait. I waited. I waited too long. I will forever carry that one with me.
Despite the gut-wrenching regret I feel, a new season is upon us. Self-loathing won't cut it. A pity party does no good. I have a friend who just lost the love of her life. My prayer is that she is loved and cared for, and that I can be the friend she deserves.
There is much to say about my friend and the legacy he leaves behind, but that shall wait for a future, more celebratory post. He lived a beautiful, God-honoring life, and while I wish I had said goodbye face-to-face, I hope he knows just how much he impacted me over these past 15 years.
Don't wait. Please don't wait.
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