My how time flies when your having fun. All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Sometimes you have to stop and smell the roses. Life is short so live it to the fullest. By definition a cliche' is a phrase that is outdated and over used. But as I see it there was a reason they were written and are timeless. .. ..

Whomever wrote them understood the importance of time and that there aren't enough hours in the day (yet another cliche'). I have realized this more this summer than ever before. Between my full time job, starting a small business, writing this column and taking on a very part time job, I have had little time for my friends. Funny thing is, I didn't really notice until I spent time with them. You know. . .out of sight, out of mind. Normally, I wouldn't say there was truth in that particular cliche', but. . . .. ..

My first realization came after I got together with a friend for drinks. There were no awkward pauses and no slowing of the conversation. We did have bouts of rolling laughter and moments of sheer pleasure in simply enjoying each others company. When it was time to leave, we decided to make plans for another rendezvous. .. ..

"Okay, lets meet for dinner on Wednesday." she said. .. ..

"No, that's not good for me." I replied. Countering with "How 'bout lunch Monday?" .. ..

"Nope, can't do Monday, I have jury duty." .. ..

After several more futile attempts, we resigned ourselves to call later to set a date. We said our goodbyes and reluctantly parted. As I drove away I could feel a real warmth in my heart. I had a smile that just wouldn't fade. I thought to myself, "Wow, that was fun. I really miss her." It was as if being with my friend had reminded me of why I fell in love with her to begin with. Not the romantic kind of love, but the pure unconditional kind that you save for family and people you chose to be your family. It felt good. I began to crave that feeling. I thought about all the other people I hadn't made time for. I thought about how many of them were just as guilty of not making time for me. .. ..

I think we just get so caught up in making ends meet that we lose sight of what is important. The people we love. So here and now, I am making all who I call Friend a promise. . .If you ever need me, I'll be there in two shakes of a lamb's tail. I want to be a good friend to you and there is no time like the present. But, please be patient with me. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Anyway, better late than never.

Current "As I See It" Editorial