When Bad News Enforces the Importance of the Correct Things
Mom called me mid-morning with news that sunk my heart. A dear, old friend of mine is very ill. It left me thinking about so many childhood memories. So much laughter. Some of the best memories of my upbringing were when my friend and I were together.
Hearing that a good friend, especially one in their 50s, is very ill can be profoundly unsettling. It’s an age where we often still think of ourselves and our friends as having years ahead to pursue dreams, enjoy family, and create memories. When illness strikes someone this age, it serves as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability and the fleeting nature of health. We often assume there’s plenty of time left, but such news forces us to confront how delicate our lives really are.
For many, the 50s are a time of new beginnings, with growing children, fresh pursuits, and a sense of renewed purpose. Illness disrupts this narrative, bringing an awareness that time is never guaranteed. It underscores the importance of valuing each day—of living with intention, connecting deeply with others, and expressing gratitude for our health and opportunities. This experience can change one’s perspective, pushing us to savor simple moments we might otherwise overlook: a morning walk, a good meal, a quiet conversation.
This news also highlights the value of friendships and that of family, especially as life’s inevitable challenges emerge. Being there for each other—through laughter, tears, and everything in between—takes on a new, deeper meaning. And for me, specifically, it brought back thoughts of Dad, who I miss deeply.
How does one deal with this type of news? It is like I tell my children… life isn’t about what happens to you, it is how you deal with it. And that is easier to say than to actually do.
For those who are well, it’s a call to cherish each interaction, make time for loved ones, and not put off those things we hold dear. Every day is a gift, and recognizing this truth can help us honor life’s fragility while embracing its beauty and connections. The choice we make today affects not only ourselves, but others.
I am just so sad for my friend. For his wife. For his family. I will pray for him. I will think of him often. I will reach out when appropriate to tell him how much he means to me (even though I think he knows). And I will use this moment to remember what is important to me… and act upon it.
