Even though I find the exercise more than a bit cheesy, I think it's important in a world where we take so much for granted to step back and acknowledge that we've got it better than about 95% of the rest of the planet.
This week was hard to watch unfold. Two different groups of friends unexpectedly experienced the loss of a person they care about. I didn't know either of the deceased men, but to watch my friends mourn and grieve these shocking losses so close to the holidays...hurts. There is nothing I can do other than to offer my condolences and be present. I am so deeply sorry for their losses. The death of people our age really stuns so deeply - how can somebody who only really got their lives started suddenly be gone? Those who are left behind have few answers.
In the wake of these passings, I think about gratitude, and the incredibly high caliber of friend I've been fortunate to have all my life. I have had friends die. And I can't imagine it will ever get any easier, even when we're well into our 80s. So here's my suggestion.
