SOL2020: 3/52 Remembering a Friend

Thanks to Two Writing Teachers for providing space for writers each week. ​

People debate the pros and cons of Facebook. For me, I like it for the very fact that it connects me with my friends from childhood through high school. It keeps me in touch with family on the other coast.

​Lately, many of my high school friends have been abuzz in anticipation of our 50th high school reunion. We were the first graduating class of Royal High School in Simi Valley, CA. We were a bonded class because essentially we were seniors for both junior and senior years. We are also bonded to the classes of 1971 and 1972 as well because beginning history of a school was there for the creating.

These are my pages from yesterday and today. I was shocked to learn that one of our classmates died very unexpectedly on Sunday. HB was a kind and humble soul. He worked hard, had a smile for everyone, and would lift people up.

His brother said on FB that while HB was always hoping to find that hidden treasure, strike it lucky, or find a pot of gold, he was the poet of gold in the manner in which he treated those around him.

I didn’t know him well but through Facebook we kept in touch. A birthday hello or a Merry Christmas, etc. And if someone was in need, HB would lift them in prayer. I was looking forward to seeing him this September at the reunion.

He would undoubtedly have his Royal High Scrap Books for us to all review and reminisce. He would most likely recall a story or two from high school days. And he would have a hug and a smile for us all.

It makes me sad to know HB will not be with our group. Today as I write this, I have heard that another friend’s partner joined HB today after an illness and that another is struggling with health issues.

​All this reminds me of the importance of my OLW for the year : JOY. It’s something I look for each day. I was glad to know the joy of the friendship with HB.