As I get older and more in touch with my own mortality, these stories touch me more deeply. We have people here who I have never met, will likely never meet, and are just faceless names on a forum, yet the connections seem to transcend human contact. I share the losses of everyone here, and in the most recent case of Ian Fraser, the loss of one of us.

This also stirs up the reflection of how I have not been able to make the marriage thing work for me despite 3 attempts, and how much I envy those of you who were fortunate enough to meet your version of the special someone to share your life with.

I can't even imagine experiencing that kind of bond, much less tha sense of loss when they depart.

Best to you Pat. I will pray for both you and your best friend.