Michael and Karma

Michael hired me back in 1994 and, despite our very different personalities, during my two years of reporting to him we always had a very cordial and respectful professional relationship. We also worked very well together and complemented each other in our strengths and weaknesses; as he was fond of saying, “We make a good team, kid!” I tend to agree.  Neither one of us works for the same company now, but we’ve been friends ever since.

I use the word “friends” somewhat loosely here, as we (like so many others) have allowed modern life’s daily rat-race to get in the way of our friendship; the result is that we went a good five years without seeing one another. We saw each other again tonight, and I felt guilty. After seeing my (former- boss-always-friend) and listening to the turmoil he has endured these past couple of years, I vow to never, ever, complain again.

Michael was diagnosed with a crippling, incurable and progressive decease, which resulted in him losing his job and, soon, his car, his only means of transportation; he saw his house burn to the ground, rebuilt it and now risks losing it to foreclosure; a car accident left him with broken ribs, a fractured patella and no front teeth; he lost his best friend, both parents and his beloved pet; he lost sight in one eye and is at risk of losing it in the other.  As he’s telling me all this I am just standing there, flabbergasted at all I’m hearing and in awe of this man’s attitude. When I express my concern he’s the one who reassures me that everything happens for a reason and that it will all work out; that he feels blessed for all the loving people he has in his life who, although none can help him financially, will never let him live without a roof over his head.

I am reminded of another Michael’s famous phrase: “A lady had a baby up a tree, so stop complaining!” In reality, if only I’d take the time to count my blessings rather than wasting precious moments concentrating on life’s disappointments and mistakes, I could be a much happier person.We hug each other as we say goodbye and promise to get together again soon, saying that we shouldn’t go so long without seeing each other. All things that everyone says but then, as life gets in the way of our best intentions (and death, sometimes, sneaks up unannounced) we all regret falling into the same trap again… and again…and again. Same ol’ same ol’; same old excuses. As time keeps on moving, as the clock keeps on ticking.

Your attitude is commendable Michael, and you are an inspiration to behold. You have touched so many lives during your 58 years on planet Earth that it’s about time you, yourself, become the recipient of others’ goodwill, generosity and love. What goes around comes around, my friend. I am so sorry for all you’ve had to endure, but rest assured that as long as you keep those spirits up and maintain that positive attitude, that heart of gold of yours will never let you down and you will never be completely alone. 

For you:

 

Stay well, my friend. I’ll stay in touch, that’s a promise.