Earlier this week, I received an email from an old high school classmate and friend. During our high school years, we were very close. Had a lot of laughs, played a lot of pranks, and helped each other navigate that perilous path that leads one from a boyhood to a young adult. But after graduation from high school, we went our separate ways, and our paths have only briefly crossed once in the past 30 years.until last week.Out of the blue, I received a message from my old friend and it said, “Higgy, I’m dying from cancer. Please pray for my family.”

That was it. Nothing more. Short and to the point. What took only a few seconds to write has consumed my thoughts this past week. So many memories have flooded my mind. Though I haven’t seen this friend but once in 30 years, I feel as though I’ve been transported back through time and the past 30 years haven’t happened. But they have. And I’m heartbroken for my old friend, and will certainly honor his request.

But let this be a reminder to all of us. We’re all dying. Whether we are cognizant of it or not, each day we are a day closer to our death. Therefore, say what you need to say to your friends and family while you have time. Don’t allow loving words to go unspoken, then later to haunt you with regret. Not tomorrow, but today, tell someone you love how you feel. Remember, you and your loved one are dying.

Steve Higginbotham