Memory Lane without a map

 

07.13.05 (8:24 am)   [edit]

...browsing online looking for hotel info. Something catches my eye and I get distracted off my task (as usual) some how I land in the Clearwater/St. Pete newspaper. Not a big deal as that is where I am traveling this weekend.
I see this name that looks familiar, one of those blast from the past moments! I click it and I am taken to the death notices. I start reading about this man who passed away July 7th 2005 in St Pete FL. He is survived by his wife....and then it lists his children. Michael, Harold and Annette. *way to odd to be coincidence*
As I start reading the names, I realize that without a doubt it is the father of some people who at one time meant a great deal to me. One being the boy that at age 15, I would have sworn I was going to marry, the others his brother and sister.
Now over the years I have wondered what became of my first love. I think that is fairly common. Don't we all have those times where we wonder how one altered moment in the past could have drastically changed our present? It has nothing to do with wanting a different present, for me it is just a reminder of how things are destined to be.
I have very fond memories of that time in my life. I was sad for the loss I am certain my long ago friends are enduring. I didn't know their father very well, but even after 20+ years... my feelings for those who I was fortunate enough to have as a part of my life, are still true and intact.
A nice stroll down memory lane.