Don’t take things, or people, for granted. Someone we love may be here today but gone tomorrow and once someone is gone, there are no “do overs.” Sometimes, it’s the little things in life that go a long way. Saying “I love you” to one’s life partner, spouse, children, and close family and friends is one of the easiest things anyone can do to make someone happy. I love my friends, many of whom I have known since childhood, and when we talk to each other on the phone, we usually end our conversation with “I love you.” Isn’t that true, Roger, Charlie? Linda? Chris? Teresa? Observing my brother, Park, and his high school sweetheart, and wife of well over 50 years, has taught me a lot about the importance of these little things, including saying “I love you.” Park and Jeanette tell each other “I love you” many times each day. It has the same sweet sound today as it did many years ago when they were dating, or newlyweds, or new parents. I have spent most of my career traveling, often, without David. We always talk on the phone on a daily basis when I am working out of town and there have been many times when one of us has enough time to say “I love you” and nothing more. The first thing we say when we wake up each morning is “I love you.” If that isn’t a great way to start the day, nothing is!
My days when Melissa and I are together usually by start hearing her say “I love you” – largely because Melissa is more quickly alert in the morning than I am. And, together or apart, now more than ever with our communication devices, communicating is easier than ever. Thinking back over the years of our career, it is interesting to think how many times I called Melissa, through a hotel switchboard, to reach her in the morning when we were separated for work. Lest you think we are waxing sentimental in these posts, just know that a big reason for that is we have been reminded of the fragility of life clear a few times in recent months. The death of some friends is part of it. Medical issues for other friends and family is another part of it. And in a turbulent world, finding a moment to show some affection, appreciation, or concern for others takes little effort, but can make a difference in the lives of others as well as ourselves. A friend told me 2 keys to successful relationships was saying “I love you” and not going to bed angry; I think this can extend beyond spouses or significant others when thought of in the bigger picture.
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