Tomorrow marks a very bittersweet anniversary for me.. one that brings me joy and sadness in the same breath. Two years ago, Dec. 3 2012, i was informed about a friend of mine being diagnosed with lung cancer. He was a fellow drummer, who coincidentally replaced me in a band that I continued to follow in earnest because of his amazing contribution to such a collection of talented musicians... As the reality sunk in, my incredible ability to be a freakin idiot kicked in and I left my desk to have a smoke, the very same thing that handed him HIS expiration date. As I stood out in the cold, bewildered by the news, I suddenly became very aware of the insanity of my actions. To cut to the chase, I extinguished my addiction, crushed the remainder of the pack on the way back to my desk, and immediately called Melodi Leigh Breton and apologized for promising to be around forever, yet slowly causing my own demise on a daily basis, thus making my words a lie to her. As I dried my eyes and hung up the phone, I knew I would never go back. I lost a friend in the process, but he gave me the unreturnable gift of time.... with my children, my grand children, my step children, and the most important person in this world to me who will soon be my wife, Melodi. To this day, I wear a symbol commemorating my friend on my arm when I play drums... one that he shares on his tombstone, for it was about a year later (Nov.25) that he lost his battle. I dont usually post things quite so heavy on Facebook. But I do so today not only to remember and give thanks for the gift I was given, but in hopes that those close to me wont require me to be in his position for you to find yourself in mine. 2 years and counting... smoke free. Thank you AH.
Posted on: Wed, 03 Dec 2014 01:08:53 +0000