One of the Great Ones

 

David Blackshear. Georgia boy, WWII vet (navigator on a B24 in the Pacific Theather), musician extraordinare, CEO, husband, brother, father, grandfather, friend. One of the great ones. So blessed to have known him.

There is no course on how to age well. You can get plenty of input on what foods to eat, medicines to take, investments to make. But in order to truly wrap your head and your heart around the whole "living life fully" thing, you have to find a mentor. Someone who has walked the walk, who teaches by example.

On Saint Simons Island, my sensi, my gurus, were Russ, Perry and David. Each was unique. Each was extraordinary. All that was required to matriculate into their Master Class was to show up, pay attention and ask questions. The "Old Dogs" were not shy. They would tell you what they thought.

The only downside to having "chronologically challenged" teachers is that they keep dying off. But that event is precisely the lesson to be learned. It is the final exam.

Dying well, managing the indignities of a failing body, a slower mind, meeting these insults with grace and humor and compasion. Suffering Life's losses stoicly, without self pity or recrimination.

The lessons: This is not a dress rehersal. Give it your best. Take nothing personally. Enjoy that which can be enjoyed (and that's most of it). Endure that which must be endured. No whining. Laugh. Smile. Say hello and make new friends. Say goodbye.

Goodbye David. I'll miss you and remember you. Much peace, old friend.