The Belt
Almost every day for the past over 30 some years I’ve worn a belt made for me by a friend that has been dead since late 1979. I am reminded every day how lucky I am to be alive and somewhat in control of my faculties.
My friend struggled mightily with his problems and in the end they were just too much for him. His problems didn’t allow him to go forward and drug him back into the pit he’d emerged from. The end came in an accident that took his life and 2 others.
I think of you often my friend, it doesn’t seem that long ago till I look at this old well-worn leather belt you made for me a long time ago.
Uffda! That brings tears to my eyes. It doesn’t seem that long ago that he died, I agree. It seems not very long ago that Daryl died. When we lose our loved ones, it’s like a time warp to me.
I was sittin with Dad at the cabin one day. He had a cup of coffee and was smoking one of his ole luck strikes. He looked around and said,”I want to leave this place to you kids Lainy, I wish I could leave more.” I said, “Daddy, you leave behind a legacy worth more than money or material items. You have touched so many lives, you will never be forgotten. Your children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, family, and friends will carry you in thier hearts for ever.” He smiled at me with a tear in his eye and said, “I love you.” Before he passed, he gave me his boots and his shine kit. One of my favorite memories was Daddy shining his boots, the care he took and the smell of the polish. I wear them now and it seems I feel myself walking a bit taller and see in my heart and mind how he use to walk in them.