The world lost a special human last week. Someone very near to our hearts is no longer physically here, and it hurts. Loss and grief are so interesting… I feel them physically. It can be exhausting and so confusing.
While I hadn’t known Michael “Swany” Swanson for very long (not long enough!), he profoundly impacted my life over the last three years. He was my husband’s best friend and quickly became a true friend to me as well. Level-headed, kind, and deeply considerate, Swany was so present, in the moment and genuinely happy. He was a teacher and a coach, so he just naturally listened and cared. And he was a scratch golfer—it was his passion.
When I first met Swany, he was setting off on the Appalachian Trail —something he had always wanted to do. It was incredible to hear his trail stories, and it made me want to be more adventurous. I wish I were more like Mike, more of the time. I was thinking just that in my yoga class this morning when Mar, our inspirational teacher, reminded us of how fast time goes by. I recently recalled hearing that most of us only have about 80 summer vacations in our lives. That leaves me with approximately 22… and that doesn’t sound like enough to me! I wouldn’t say I am a procrastinator, but sometimes when it comes to things for myself, like trips away or just adventures, I don’t feel I plan ahead enough. I am using Mike’s example to be better at that. How about you? Do you prioritize making the most of your “80 Summers”?
Mike’s family is making this simple request that I will pass on to you: “We kindly ask you to honor his spirit by performing a random act of kindness in his name, a kind gesture, a helping hand, or a donation to your local charity and assist in spreading the joy he shared with us.” What an easy and wonderful ask.
With love and gratitude,
Lauren