That Time Of Year

I always get a little sentimental this time of year. I'm a big softy, I know. St. Patrick's Day will begin, as it always does for me, with a trip to my dad's grave for a Schlitz. There'll be dozens of friends, family gatherings and multiple parades and parties. It all tends to make me a little nostalgic. I have this little paperweight on my desk here, given to me many years ago that says "Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy which sustained him through temporary periods of joy." Very true this time of year.

I heard from an old, dear friend the other day. One of those people we all have in our lives that we may go months or years without seeing or contacting, but that are always in our hearts and thoughts. It was a great treat to catch up a little with somebody who means a lot to me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to reconnect.

So I want to give you a St. Patrick's Day assignment. This week, get in touch with somebody you haven't heard from in awhile. Renew a friendship or start a new one. Call your mother. E-mail your old room mate. Grab a beer with your high school pals. Life's short. Hang on tight to the people you love. It's the Irish way.