You Just Never Know

I think I’ve shared with you before that sometimes I write this column and I don’t think anyone cares. I was pleasantly pleased, therefore, when I received a note regarding my July 18 editorial regarding lying.

In that article I targeted politics and though the standards I outlined can be applied in any circumstance the fact is that it is typically not okay to lie.

What about to soften a blow to a friend or loved one? Yes, I understand that reasoning. But not when it comes to electing our nation’s leaders – as I said then, it doesn’t matter on which side of the aisle you sit: the voters should not be lied to.

It’ll be an interesting election come November.

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As I get older I realize how important and valuable are family and friends. Last week I had the chance to meet up with a friend for dinner. We went over to Divina Cucina (voted Finest Italian Restaurant) and settled in for some delicious food and drink.

I had the chance to listen to her concerns regarding a change in her life and some decisions she has to make.

On Tuesday of this week I was talking to a friend of mine (we grew up next door to each other) and we’ll be having dinner together later this month.

In July, my son, his wife and mother-in-law took a trip to Europe. They were gone for 10 (hot) days and I had the opportunity to look after my baby granddaughter. My son’s wife has some really good friends and asked one to come up from Ontario and “spell me” for a couple of days. I was grateful to have my attention redirected.

On Friday I’m heading to San Diego to visit a friend and her family. Her eldest daughter is having a birthday and asked that I be there. I couldn’t say, “Yes!” fast enough.

On Monday night this week, Steve and I hosted dinner for a couple of our kids and their families. It was Steve’s birthday dinner and at one point I sat back and just watched the interaction with the kids. Though we were missing two of the boys the treasure that is family was evident.

One thing I’m grappling with is learning the expectations one may have of their friends and family may be out of reach – either expectations are too high or those family members and friends can’t be those people I was hoping for. It can be a tough pill to swallow but one that is important to ingest.

I think I’ll just be thankful for who I have in my life.