I did not know Shane, but the moving words and poignant photos I have just viewed at least add a more personal touch for those of us who did not have the pleasure of knowing him. Once again, just like on that warm September morning eleven months ago, we are abruptly reminded of how quickly a life can be extinguished. We all like to imagine our own passing as something that will
eventually come "someday," but hopefully not for many, many years. We would like to go peacefully, perhaps in the warm comfort of our own bed, perhaps surrounded by those who love us, and certainly content that it was a good, long run. Well, Shane's untimely death reminds us that nothing should be taken for granted, and each day should be received as a blessing from God.
Again, I am reminded of a quote that I have often used in the past with friends and comrades. It comes from the final episode of "Cheers." Sam had just sold the bar, and he was sitting around in the dark with Cliff, Norm, Carla, and Frazier, smoking cigars and reminiscing about the good times in the past. After a melancholy period of silence, Frazier Crane spoke up: "You
know," he said softly, "life is so short, and special people move in and our of out lives so quickly, that we must never miss an opportunity to tell those people just how much they mean to us."
Here's to you, Shane. May St. Peter see the wings on your chest and move you to the front of the line.
Vernon Lee