Celebrate the living

I am watching the reports on the deaths of Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. The death of a celebrity seems so unreal. We grew up with both of these icons. As a kid I listened to Michael and would play my 45's and sing with him in a falsetto voice. I also had one of those famous posters of Farrah on my wall at home. She was the most beautiful girl in the world.

The deaths of these two icons hit us and make us take stock of where we've been and what is important in our lives. We are forced to step back in time and remember the influence they had on us.

It makes me think about other people who have been a part of my life who have also moved on. I think of those who have been mentors to me including John Brooks, Dick Bowser and Sheldon Keller. I remember those who nurtured me in my faith including Jan Bartizek, Bev Duntz, Albert Pearce and those who have challenged me to go deeper like Dave Murray, Cliff Vanase, Amy Rezendes and Sandy Callendar.

We meet many people as we journey through life. They all have an effect on us. The truth is that Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett are the symbolic reminders of the people and events that shaped us. Their deaths also remind us that life is precious and that we don't have forever. So maybe the best way to celebrate their lives is to reach out and thank the people around us. Send a card to your high school teacher who took and interest in you and encouraged you. Drop a line to that favorite uncle or aunt who made you feel special. Call that neighbor who helped you out when you son or daughter was sick. Give a card to that co-worker who covered for you when you had to take time off in an emergency. Take a friend out to dinner who was there when you needed someone to talk to.

Celebrate life with the living and you will be able to rejoice every day.

Cal