I just returned from a 10-day trip with the significant other and my parents. We flew to Vancouver, British Columbia (one of my favorite cities on this planet), got on a cruise ship and meandered up the Alaskan coast, eventually making our way to Anchorage.
In some ways, it was the trip of a lifetime—though not necessarily because of where we were, or what we were doing (though both the setting and the activities were pretty darn cool). It was the fact that I got to do this with my parents that made the trip truly special.
The vacation reminded me: Life’s short, and we all really need to live it the best that we can—all of the time. It’s a cliché, yes, but it’s true. In my case: My folks are getting up there in age (but aren’t we all, to varying degrees?), and my dad’s health could be better, so I’ll treasure the memories from those 10 days as long as my brain is at least semi-functional.
We all can’t afford an Alaskan cruise. (For the vast majority of my parents’ life, they couldn’t afford an Alaskan cruise, and I am elated that now, finally, they can.) But we can all afford to do something to make our lives just a little better.
So, this week, I encourage you to take a step to slow down and live life. Go to a show. Call that friend you’ve had on your mind but haven’t spoken to in a while. Volunteer your talents to a worthy nonprofit organization. Or, if you can, set aside some time to spend with your parents.
And, of course, take some time to enjoy this week’s special TAMMIES issue of the Tucson Weekly. As always, thanks for reading.
This article appears in Sep 1-7, 2011.
Yes, life is short and I concur with everything you said.
One year ago, my wife and I returned from a similar trip; a two-week round trip Alaskan cruise out of Seattle (with a stop at Victoria BC) and another week in Seattle, Mt. Rainer and Mt. St. Helens.
Eight months ago my wife died, far too early in her life. I am so glad we got to do this trip together, yet I’m so sad that there are many trips that we didn’t get to take and many little hurts and oversights that I am guilty of.
Give your significant other, spouse, child or good friend a hug and loving words whenever you can. You never know when they won’t be around to hear you and then it’s too late.