This morning I received news that a dear friend of mine lost his battle with cancer. Jim was a very good friend to me. He supported me in a variety of ways and took me on many memorable fishing trips. I have many precious and fond memories of times spent with Jim.
The sad part isn’t only that he lost his battle with cancer and left us, but I do not have any photos of those great times spent with Jim. I was extremely saddened when I heard this news this morning. I know it is selfish on my part, but I sure wish I had some photographs to keep the memories fresh. Like the time we first went fishing together and caught over 60 whiting. Or the time we went on a 2-day trip from Gloucester, Massachusetts and caught so many cod that we had to buy two more coolers. I know these might just sound like fish stories to you, but they are true. I can close my eyes and see Jim fishing beside me and then laughing as he out-fished me.
So the next time you debate leaving your camera at home, don’t do it. Take it along and use it. Some day later you’ll be glad you did. Today is a sad day for me.
Jim, thank you for the many memories that you shared with me. I will never ever forget you!