What a horrible, horrible day. I went in to work to find my office mate and good friend died over the weekend in a stupid accident. He drowned after standing up in a kayak. Why? I have no idea. I don't know if they know why he did it. It was probably one of those split second decisions where you never think "what if...". But now it's too late. My heart aches for his widow and two children. And I ache for the friend I lost. I have only known him about 9 months, but we shared a lot of laughs and had a very similar outlook on work, family, politics, even money (he was the one I brown-bagged it with when everyone else ordered out). We both had a sweet tooth and would share the chocolate we both hid in our desks. When office politics got to be too much, we would close the door to our office and swear up a storm. We both took pride in doing our job well. We would talk about how nothing, nothing at all, was more important to us than our families. And now my office feels just wrong without him there to bring a smile to me face.
I don't feel much like writing tonight. Please, everyone, hold your loved ones a little closer today. Think before you act. I am as guilty as anyone of driving a little too fast when I am late, of taking convenient shortcuts when I should be thinking about safety, of not wearing my helmet or seatbelt when I am only going to the neighbors - but the impossible can happen, even when we think it cannot. Take care, everyone. I'll be checking in later.
one stupid move...
April 18th, 2006 at 01:38 am
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I appreciate your sharing this as my SO and I are regular kayakers. I can see how it is easy to become complacent doing something you love and are familiar with. I will share this with my SO as a warning not to forgot safety precautions.
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