Wasn't 1995 just yesterday?
No, dear heart, it was 31 years ago. Time has marched on without so much as a fare thee well.
Thirty-one years ago, Mrs. RWP (the lovely Ellie) and I had no grandchildren. Next month our oldest grandson will turn 30, we have six grandchildren in all, and we have three great-grandchildren.
Thirty-one years ago, I had never had a heart attack. Later this month I will be staring the thirtieth anniversary of my anterior myocardial infarction (AMI) in the face.
Thirty-one years ago, I thought my retirement from the corporate world was at least ten years away. However, due to unexpected spinoffs, outsourcings, and early retirement packages, I bid that world adieu at the age of 58. It doesn't seem possible, but I have been officially retired for more than a quarter of a century. More proof that I am, how you say, old.
I could go on and on, but I think I am depressing myself.
Here's hoping your 2026 is getting off to a good start. Already one of our longtime friends passed away at the age of 96 on New Year's Day. Nobody is guaranteed a single day more.
If you're alive and breathing an reading this post, have food on your table and a roof over your head, have shoes on your feet and a little money in the bank, count your blessings and quit your complaining. Instead, give thanks with a grateful heart.
The world is your oyster, at least for the moment.
