Today marks not only St. Patrick's Day, but also the birthday of an old friend, old on a few levels. He held the status of best friend for my husband, which is a term not often used by people over 10 years of age. This was truly the case, though, and he was dear to us both. He was one of the first people in this world to greet our firstborn only minutes after his arrival. He was a major presence in our lives for years, and I never would have imagined that things could so drastically change. That is, until just about this time last year. If only I could go back.
If I could go back in time, I'd make just a few simple changes.I wouldn't make the one off-handed comment in an email that set everything into motion. I wouldn't make the comment that eclipsed our years of friendship, and turned me into the horrible bad guy. I wouldn't type the words that marked the beginning of the end. I wouldn't hit send on the message that included the one sentence that would so greatly offend as to ultimately end a years long relationship.
In the last year, I've so often felt a hollow pit of regret. But, all parties in this case are seemingly held to their initial reactions, and no one can budge. No one person can do anything to change the course of what has already been done. Words have been said (or emailed) that cannot be taken back, even with a stroke of the delete key. So, although a year has passed, there is no change. As much as I wish my husband could have his best friend back, I believe it is not meant to be. But on this March 17th, I wish our dear old friend a happy birthday, and I hope this day finally finds him happy and at peace with his life. Even if that life no longer includes us.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
