My one friend was the epitome of the All-American boy despite the social and political unrest of the late 1960's and early 70's. Think of the "Ballad of the Green Beret" and you'll have the picture.
My other friend was "the" class clown. He went unopposed with that title. I mean how many students after repeated warnings from a 7th grade History teacher find themselves with their mouth duct taped shut?
Then something happened to all three of us....LIFE!
Like being shot out of a canon we went our separate ways. We each had different paths in life that brought pain, disappointment and joy. Sometimes the pain was so deep there was little hope of joy. We each found ourselves in different locales across the country. Time and distance had fractured our friendships that we had always believed would never be contested.One friend faced personal challenges but persevered. My other friend...well...I'm not sure. he disappeared. Maybe deliberately.
Four years ago I attended what would be my first high school reunion...my 30th. I really went because my Dad had told me that my friend would be there and hoped I would also. I did.
When I entered the local country club (the first time in my life since I grew up on the wrong side of town) a former cheerleader at the receptionist desk jumped to her feet and shouted, "You're here! Oh my gosh you're here!" (Keep in mind that back in the day I never even got a look from her).
And then without missing a beat she said, "He's over there" and pointed to my friend. It looked like a scene from Love Story as we came together and hugged one another. This was a friend who once called me and asked for forgiveness if he had ever said anything hurtful back in the day. No forgiveness was needed.
Our other friend did not attend the reunion. Whenever I'm asked about him, where he is, what he is doing, what's happened to the class clown my answer is always the same: "I really don't know but if you hear anything please let me know."
In 1963 the three of us sat in Ms. Miller's 5th grade class. She was teaching that day how to know when the letters "i" and "e" comes before the other. "For instance" she said, "like the word friend. Remember that the last three letters are 'end.' Friends stay together to the 'end.'"
So Donnie take care of yourself. I know lately there's been a health concern or two. Maybe we can hook up at that 35th high school reunion and represent!
And Dave...just remember that Donnie and I are in the phone book. We both still think of you and hope you are well. Or hey just forget the phone call...just come join us at the country club in 2011 for that 35th reunion.
FRIENDS...Who Needs Them? We all do especially those friends who stick with you to the 'end."
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