Unexpected departures

I received an email this morning from the sister of a long-time friend. Her brother had passed away, and left instructions of the people to reach out to, and the messages to send.

I was on the list.

The simple message read “So long, and thanks for all the fish”. I smiled.

I wonder if it was a coincidence that I found myself watching the movie adaptation of “The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy” a few days ago?

It’s an odd thing - losing somebody - knowing they will not be there any more. Once we’re gone, we’re gone - all that really remains is the memories of those who knew us, and the stories we became a part of along the way.

I know lots of people like to believe in higher powers, or creators. I’m not one of them - not for many years now. I’ve always thought it tremendously conceited to think of ourselves as in any way special - to have been invented, or created. Trying to attach meaning to our short stay on the ball of mud we ride around the nearest star has always seemed a bit contrived to me.

I find it far more difficult to deal with “not really gone” than “final” departures. For some people friendships seem to have a lifespan - that can be cut short, ended, or discarded along the way. I’m not built that way at all. Life might carry me away from time to time, but I’ll invariably find my way back.

Anyway.

I’ll miss you Peter.