This past week, I received word that an old friend of mine from back in my Florida days had passed away at the relatively young age of 58.  His name was John Caylor.  I know that name probably means nothing to you, but it did to me.  Apparently, he had been suffering from a brain injury over the past five years and finally succumbed to his condition.  I hadn’t seen or spoken with John for over fifteen years.  I had no idea.

This was a guy who I had worked with back in my Disney days, roomed with for a time, and spent many an evening with over numerous pitchers of beer.  A drinking buddy.  A confidant.  One of those old friends you think of from time to time (or see an old photo of), instantly smile from the memories, and think “I wonder what this guy is up to these days?”

Needless to say, I was shaken.

This was the second friend/roommate from my Florida days who has passed away in recent years (both around my age), and the loss of both gentlemen (as well as many others) has given me pause to reflect.

People come into your life at various stages.  The bonds of friendship are sometimes limited to the situation or circumstance, but some relationships stand test of time.  The type of friendships where, even after all these years, if you ran into that person, it would be like time hadn’t passed at all.  You’d pick up right where you left off with them. 

We are not guaranteed time on this earth.  Fate, illness, or some other horrible situation could take us away at any moment.  Our relationships and friendships are what make life worth living, and those experiences provide us with heartfelt memories (both good and bad) that help shape and define us as human beings.

All I’m saying is, if you’ve got an old friend that you’ve thought of recently, I implore you to look them up.  Reach out to them.  Call them on the phone.  Get together with them to reminisce (or create some new memories together), if geography allows.  Bring out your old photos, laugh together, and share your stories.  You’ll both be better for it, and you won’t have missed out on the chance to reconnect (or stay connected) with someone who means something in your life.

Don’t say “I’ll do that – one of these days,” because time is not a friend or ally.  At my age it is a ruthless overseer that only takes away, whether it be health, memories, or mobility.

Reconnect with that old acquaintance, that old college pal, or that friend from your 20’s.  Do it while you have the chance.

Rest in peace, John.  I will miss you, my friend.