Preamble
by Dave Connolly
Each year as I reach out to the ‘58 Guys on behalf of the Prep’s Annual Fund, I attempt to record the news and feedback thoughts that are an essential, and perhaps as important as, a part of the donations which are so continuously and generously provided. While I use the pictures from our 1958 Petrean Yearbook to refer to as a way to “personalize” my mindset before each phone call or email, I’m struck at how fast the years have flown by for us… Also, Walter’s periodic news updates and Vince’s Class of ’58 Blog (http://prep58.org/blog) keep me “rooted” in the reality of our (my) aging.
Like many of you, having “survived” a few cancer operations and a by-pass operation, I recall that, prior to each, I was spiritually resigned to the seriousness of that which I was facing and was open to all the possibilities. On each occasion, waking up from the anesthesia, I was struck with the pleasant awareness of … “Hey, …Neat!… I didn’t die!”
Now, I’m a few years beyond those trials, and I’ve noticed that I try to live the life I have remaining, differently, with a new, daily enthusiasm for The Life I “Enjoy”!… Some of the “practices” I’ve developed in these recent years are:
Never miss an opportunity to look for a rainbow and stand in “wonder” at it’s magnificence!
Whenever a Grandchild is within reach, pull them close, hug and kiss them and tell the how loved they truly are! (The little ones, in particular, are absolutely convinced You are their personal God and KNOW they love YOU, unconditionally!) … Given that, It’s not hard to love them unconditionally in return … parents can’t do that!
Every now and then treat yourself to an Ice Cream, Hot Fudge Sundae or Banana Split and not only taste and eat it … but SAVOR IT, by recalling all the past memories that are “resurrected” of having ice cream in the past with (a) special friend(s) and family members.
“Big Boys Don’t cry!” – Yes they do! Or at least I do, as I get older. Never hold back on shedding a tear in response to the loss of a dear friend, a memorable personal moment, or a majestic sunset, or a beautiful aria, or movie scene, or TV episode that touches your heart…. It’s a healthy thing to do … “Cleanse the heart and mind with “natural saline”!
When the sun comes out, find a bench or spot to just sit and turn your face to the sunshine, close your eyes, feel the warmth and recall all the “Geewhiz-Wow” things we have witnessed in our lifetime … remember Sputnik was launched in our senior year! … seems like last month!
Anyway, enough of this stuff … Keep checking the Prep '58 Blog for the on-going “good news” report to the “58 Guys FROM the ’58 Guys … Enjoy … Carpe Diem …Carpe occasionem…