Day 421: We Aren’t Getting Any Younger

Even as I type this, I hesitate to be the one to let some of you know that Loki‘s father passed away quite unexpectedly last night.  The news comes as a shock to all of us, and is doubly saddening in light of Loki and Alexis’s upcoming nuptials.  In no uncertain terms, this sucks.  If there is something I hate more than pain, it’s to see my friends and loved ones in pain.  At this time, it’s important to let George, our fearless entertainer, know he’s loved; better than email, please leave him a message on his blog.

When I heard the news last night, my first instinct was to rush to my parents and hold them tight.  How naive is it to think that as long as you encircle someone with the power of your grip and love alone, nothing can take them away, not even mortality?  It’s one of those things that renders one so completely powerless.  Or does it?  We have it in our power to make special and love-filled the people who are still with us.  So, here goes:

Dear mom and dad,

I love you and would do anything for you.  Thanks for giving to me with every breath of the last three decades, expecting nothing in return but my success and good values.  If I was an unbearable ass during my teenage years (alright, alright – and in my twenties), I am sorry and hope that the daughter you have today is reparation enough.  The past asks to be forgotten and the future welcomes as an exciting blank slate.  If, in the end, life happens to give me a do-over, I will reselect you, and no other, as parents.  Quite simply, you are the best.

Yours forever, Maitri.

If the bond between a parent and child is as sacred and exclusive as often described, I know that Mr. Williams will be with his son at the wedding.  Rest in peace, sir.