Something You Want to Do? Someone You Want to Meet? Do It Now, No Excuses! Here's Why... by Donna John

Mindfulness
6 years ago

Something You Want to Do? Someone You Want to Meet? Do It Now, No Excuses! Here's Why...

We got new neighbors a few months ago. They’re about 2 acres behind us through the woods, but that’s life in an acreage neighborhood. My husband, who’s the nosey one driving around to check out all the new construction, met the couple moving in, Jeff and Renee, several times, and invited them over to meet me a few times. 

The first time he came home and said they may stop by, I remember thinking, can’t we wait until all the mulch is out of the driveway and into the flower beds where it belongs. The second time I was relieved they couldn’t stop by because the potted plants that didn’t survive winter had not been replaced. Empty pots? Oh, the horror. The third time my wine supply was low and thank goodness they had other plans – now I had time to stock up before they came. What if she liked chardonnay and I only had cab?

A couple months ago we read on Facebook that Jeff’s melanoma had returned – again. Facebook kept us up-to-date on his health, and traveling voices through the woods let us know he had lots of company, and they all loved to laugh. I jokingly told my husband the next time I heard someone ask if they “wanted another beer,” I was going to yell, “Yes!” I never did. Why? Didn’t want to interfere with their day? Was something out of place if they wanted to walk over? Was I having a bad hair day? Who knows.

Right now, the mulch is no longer there, the plants have been replaced and the empty holes in my wine rack are gone – but so is Jeff. He died this morning. Do I have to tell you the lessons I learned from this? With all the wisdom I read daily from the 30Seconds tribe, probably not. Rest in peace, Jeff. I look forward to meeting your wife soon – no excuses. 

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Elisa Schmitz
Oh, Donna John , I am so sorry for the loss of your new neighbor. I love that you wrote this. It's something that so many of us can relate to. With our busy lives, we sometimes let things go until it's too late. Many thanks for this important reminder to savor every moment. Many good thoughts being sent to Renee (and hugs to you)! xoxo
Stephanie Cannoe
Donna John Thank you for sharing. I am moved.
Gail Harris
Wow Donna John . That is very sad. I'm glad you wrote about it, because it will make a difference for someone and I hope by sharing it makes a difference for you. x0
Ann Marie Patitucci
Donna John: This is so moving. Thank you for sharing with us.
Donna John
Happy to report that I met Renee last weekend. She is a wonderful - and very strong - lady and I felt like I'd known her forever. Looking forward to many good times with her. Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead Gail Harris Stephanie Cannoe Elisa All Schmitz 30Seconds
Gail Harris
Oh, I am so happy to hear that. @donna. I don't know if she would benefit from reading Your Heart Knows the Answer. But if she would I'd be happy to send you a copy for her. Just a thought.

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