Opinion Columnists
Email
Print
Words from the heart are a timely reminder
ADVERTISEMENT
Published: September 7, 2008
One regret, dear world,
That I am determined not to have
When I am lying on my deathbed
Is that I did not kiss you enough.
Hafiz
The occasion was the 40th class reunion of the 1968 class of Granard High School in Gaffney, S.C. The school colors were maroon and gold, and the returning classmates represent the last class to graduate from the all-black high school. My sister-in-law, Altie Anderson, a member of the class, invited my wife and me to attend. It was great to see people reminisce, try to remember classmates they didn't recognize -- resulting in a few awkward moments -- embrace one another and acknowledge those who have passed away.
While I don't know if the impromptu talk at the end of the evening was inspired by those who had died, were sick or just unable to attend, the unexpected comments were right on time. The speaker was grateful for having the opportunity to be present at the class reunion, seeing old friends and renewing relationships. Retired now, she and her husband, a member of the class, too, have moved back home after 39 years away. They were having a great time dancing, taking pictures, eating and catching up with classmates. She emphasized the importance of being thankful and enjoying each day. "We don't know when it will be our last," she said. Her point: Don't take anything for granted.
Her comments reminded me of a story I read once about two old friends who bumped into each other on the street one day. One friend looked downhearted, almost on the verge of tears. It was cause for concern for the other friend. As you would expect, he was curious, asking, "What has the world done to you, my old friend?"
The sad fellow responded with an unexpected answer: "Let me tell you. Three weeks ago, an uncle died and left me $40,000."
"That's a lot of money."
"But you see, two weeks ago, a cousin I never even knew died, and left me $85,000, free and clear."
"Sounds like you've been blessed ... "
"You don't understand!" he interrupted. "Last week my great-aunt passed away. I inherited almost a quarter of a million."
Now he was really confused.
"Then, why do you look so glum?"
"This week ... nothing!"
That's the challenge with receiving something on a regular basis, isn't it? Even if it is a gift, we eventually come to expect it. That's what I think the speaker was suggesting: The next class reunion isn't promised. She couldn't wait for the next opportunity, so she took it upon herself to say what was on her mind at that moment. She was appreciative.
It wasn't just the pictures of deceased classmates, or the moment of silence while lighting a candle in their memory, that was touching. It was the fellowship as well and the joy of remembering days long ago and asking "Who is that?"
They had big fun, too, as each class member's name was called and he or she walked to the front of the room to receive special mementos: a fan with all the class member's graduation pictures on it and a bookmark with the Alma Mater printed on it. You could tell that small gift was important and represented a sense of pride.
It was exciting to see them step out, front and center, as different groups were announced -- such as the baseball, basketball and football team, the glee club, and, of course, the superlatives. They laughed, hugged and posed for pictures as three of their teachers in attendance watched, proud, I'm sure. The Electric Slide proved they can still "shake a leg." And they laughed when one member of the class arrived, late, just as the class was being recognized. He was dressed to impress with his off-white suit, cream-colored silk shirt and matching tie. He was the life of the party, all night long.
And there were moments when they didn't recognize one another -- 40 years brings about a few changes. "Hello Altie and Sarah," the man said. Their facial expressions gave them away, neither recognized him. A clue helped. "I have a twin sister," he told them. That's all they needed, the conversation was on! What they didn't know was that he had just asked someone for their names. We all laughed.
And then there was that impromptu talk from the heart, like a bow around a present that wrapped the evening up in a neat package. As we go about our daily routine, it is easy to take things for granted. She didn't.
■ Nigel Alston is a Dale Carnegie trainer and motivational speaker. He can be reached at nalston1@triad.rr.com.
Email
Print
ADVERTISEMENT
N.C. Politics
Federal Politics
See community events or add your own! Click here!
Advertisement
