Always say ‘I love you’ — just in case

I just buried Mary. She was my confidant, best friend, my fiancee. Mary died of a brain aneurysm on April 3. She was in great health. She exercised, her diet was healthy, and spiritually she was second to none. Her death was never expected.

Our last full day together was beautiful. We laughed, reminisced, and were in love. When I left to go see an old friend, I kissed her and told her that I loved her.

We made a pact years ago that we would do this. Good mood or not, we always did, because we knew it could be the last time, and on that Saturday, it was.

So for everyone who loves someone, take time to tell them how important that they are to you. Take time for encouraging talks that will help if the loss of the other occurs, and never part without an “I love you.” It may seem trivial at the time, but it could be what will carry you through if the loss were to occur. Our last talk and “I love you” to Mary is what's carrying me through right now. It's making me move forward. It's giving me hope.

Tell them how important they are to you. Tell them you love them while you still can.

Keith L. Hawkins

Cedar Rapids