From Pearls Before Swine yesterday (click the image to see a larger version at the comic’s Web page):
Particularly for those of us who are veterans, and who saw action, it’s frighteningly easy to reach that stage. When I saw the comic yesterday, I thought for a moment, and realized how true it was. Without trying too hard, I can think of at least 60 friends and acquaintances who are now dead, the majority of them due to combat and/or violence. The total is probably nearer, and quite possibly over, 100. That’s a scary thought.
Fortunately, I was able (thanks be to God!) to make a new life for myself, in a new country, with a whole new set of friends. I am indeed blessed.
Peter
Thus the value of grandkids. Make new people who know you – stay forever young.
I recall my father lamenting the fact that he had outlived 3 generations of friends, at the news of the sudden passing of a friend. That was in his 70's. He made it to his early 80's.
I had two moments. The first was when my mother mercifully passed away, and I realized that in my line, I was now the oldest.
The second was a few years after that; I don't recall the specific trigger, but I do remember realizing that I am closer to the end of my life than its beginning.
If it's any comfort, ive had about half a dozen friends pass on before they were 30. We may ever be closer to the end than the beginning and never know it.
As Ogden Nash wrote, "Senescence begins, and middle age ends, the day your descendants outnumber your friends."
I should be good … my only daughter has yet to reproduce.