This past Friday evening, my high school's Class of 1966 (my class) held its 50th reunion in Greenville SC. I had hoped, over the course of the past year, that I might somehow be available to attend (contingent upon being retired and back in SC), but that has not happened. For one night of fun with folks I haven't seen in 50 years, the airline tickets, hotel and rental car costs would have been too dear.
That said, I have encouraged my FB classmate friends to share photos and memories with those of us who could not attend. And they have. I have seen photos of folks I recognize despite the changes life makes upon all of us since high school. The reunion committee shared a list of those classmates who have departed. I was shocked and saddened to read the names of so many people I remember so vividly -- 50-plus years ago -- in elementary school, junior high school and high school. My memories are like those of most of us remembering friends we haven't seen in decades: They are young and vital individuals who touched us, made us laugh, challenged us and became part of who we are today. And then we learn they have passed on. They did not ask our permission and did not say goodbye.
How is that fair?
