Visiting a Friend

[Scott McKee]

I was in his neighborhood the other day, so I thought I’d stop by and say, “Hi”.  I haven’t visited my friend in a long time and I missed him.  When I arrived at his earthly residence he was resting, but I don’t think my presence disturbed him.  He didn’t talk much, which was okay.  I never know when to shut up after all.  I told him how much I’ve missed him and how the guys in the club still talk about him.  I let him know Joe and I took his son fishing and how we got skunked, again.  How we went out in less than perfect conditions.  I laughed after I said this.  Of course we went out.  What else were we going to do?  I told him about the big fish I caught in the Lower and the fish I caught twice in the Upper last year.  He probably knew about them, but still seemed interested.  After a bit, I just stood and looked around.  I looked at a picture of him holding the monster he caught so many years ago and seemingly yesterday.  I remembered the look on his face after he caught it, and I remembered the feeling in the Harbor that day among the members fishing. Anything seemed possible that day.  I looked at his wedding picture and wondered if I ever looked that happy.  After a little silence, I told him I’d see him soon and that I’d talk to him on the water from time-to-time.

I wondered if I should write about my visit to my friend.  I wondered if the people who read what I write might think me a bit too sentimental sometimes.  I decided to write about my visit, because I think those that know my friend will be happy that someone else is thinking about him, and because I don’t want anyone to forget him, ever. 

When I got back in the car, Carrie asked me if I was okay.  I told her I was fine, because even though I haven’t seen my friend in a while, I still talk to him all the time.  Talk to you again soon buddy.