Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Age Is But A Number



To my son Tommy,

Your Great Grandfather Leo was born Christmas Day in 1921. That means he is currently ninety two years old and some change. He has lived a long and good life. But frankly that doesn't mean he, or we, or even the medical profession should resign itself to the inevitable eventuality.

You see your Grandpa Leo took off work today to bring your great grandfather to the doctor. Evidently he is seeing things that aren't there, like things on the floor to pick up which is not good with his balance. He is also attempting to go out the door to talk to the people outside that aren't there either. Great Grandpa Leo even asked for a priest but when questioned why, questioned if he felt like he was going to die, he said no.

Maybe it is just the view of a young man, who hasn't fully accepted his own mortality yet, but just because someone has lived a long and good life doesn't mean you have to lay down and give up. Dylan Thomas's "Do not go gently into that good night" was always one of my favorite poems even before most people my age learned it from watching "Back To School". I do not find ninety two years any more or less comforting if his time has come. One hundred and twelve would do just as nicely. Prayers.

Sincerely with love from your dad,
Leo

P.S.

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