The fall leaf

This is my last work day of the year. I worked from home today so I won't see my office again until 2013.

A dear friend of mine invited me to lunch. In the past, our talk has always centered around church, family and work. Some time ago, he was diagnosed with ALS. He lost the use of one hand and is now in the process of losing the use of the other. He drinks only through a straw. Has to have his meal cut up for him. At one time this bothered him. I guess it no longer does. Today our talk was about his health. He no longer goes to church. He is angry at God. He can no longer work. So we never mention that. His family came home for Christmas, but he used this time to begin distribution of his possessions. He probably will be moving away in April or May to his wife's home place. I will miss him. Hell I already miss him. He has not been with me for several years.

After lunch, he needed to stop at the grocers to pick up a few items. I pushed the cart. He placed his food into the basket. I struggled wanting to help but not be too much help.

On my way home, I stopped at a spot overlooking a creek. The sky was overcast and the trees nearly bare. The greys and browns complemented my mood. Too often lately, I have felt like this last leaf. I need to find a new beginning. I need to find some reds and greens and yellows and blues.