> One day I had lunch with some friends. Jim , a short, balding golfer
> type about 80 years old, came along with them---all in all, a pleasant
> bunch.
> When the menus were presented, we ordered salads, sandwiches, and
> soups, except for Jim who said, "Ice Cream, please. Two scoops,
> chocolate.
>
> I wasn't sure my ears heard right, and the others were aghast. "Along
> with heated apple pie," Jim added, completely unabashed.
>
> We tried to act quite nonchalant, as if people did this all the time..
> But when our orders were brought out, I didn't enjoy mine.
>
> I couldn't take my eyes off Jim as his pie a-la-mode went down.. The
> other guys couldn't believe it. They ate their lunches silently and
> grinned.
>
> The next time I went out to eat, I called and invited Jim. I lunched
> on white meat tuna. He ordered a parfait. I smiled. He asked if he
> amused me. I answered, "Yes, you do, but also you confuse me.
>
> How come you order rich desserts, while I feel I must be sensible? He
> laughed and said "I'm tasting all that is Possible.
>
> I try to eat the food I need, and do the things I should. But life's
> so short, my friend, I hate missing out on something good.
>
> This year I realized how old I was. (He grinned) I haven't been this
> old before.."
>
> "So, before I die, I've got to try those things that for years I had ignored.
>
> I haven't smelled all the flowers yet. There are too many trout
> streams I haven't fished. There's more fudge sundaes to wolf down and
> kites to be flown overhead.
>
> There are too many golf courses I haven't played. I've not laughed at
> all the jokes. I've missed a lot of sporting events and potato chips
> and cokes.
>
> I want to wade again in water and feel ocean spray on my face. I want
> to sit in a country church once more and thank God for His grace.
>
> I want peanut butter every day spread on my morning toast I want
> un-timed long distance calls to the folks I love the most.
>
> I haven't cried at all the movies yet, or walked in the morning rain.
> I need to feel wind on my face. I want to be in love again.
>
> So, if I choose to have dessert, instead of having dinner, then should
> I die before night fall, I'd say I died a winner, because I missed out
> on nothing. I filled my heart's desire. I had that final chocolate
> mousse before my life expired.."
>
> With that, I called the waitress over.. "I've changed my mind, " I
> said. "I want what he is having, only add some more whipped cream!"
>
> This is my gift to you - We need an annual Friends Day! If you get
> this twice, then you have more than one friend. Live well, love much &
> laugh often - Be happy.
>
> SHARE THIS WITH YOUR FRIENDS including me if I'm lucky enough to be
> counted among them.
>
> Be mindful that happiness isn't based on possessions, power, or
> prestige, but on relationships with people we like and respect.
> Remember that while money talks, CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM SINGS!
>
>
> SO  THAT'S MY ATTITUDE...........
> LIFE'S TOO SHORT TO SMOKE CHEAP CIGARS  !  !  !