What's Really Important?

Have you ever run into someone that you haven't talked to in a long time and you know that they know you're there, but it seems that they are trying very hard to pretend they don't see you, even though you know they do? That happened today. It's the very person I've wondered what I would do if I saw them because there is an enforced silence (on her part) that I have tried to break. It's a relationship that I thought was worth fighting for. It's been almost 8 months since I've laid eyes on her. I did something very out of the ordinary for me. My normal reaction would be to pretend I also don't see her and let her feel relieved that there was no awkward moment to endure and feel somewhat relieved myself while still feeling guilty for not at least trying. But no, I couldn't do that. I walked right up to her, tapped her on the shoulder and hugged her. I think surprised doesn't even begin to describe what registered on her face.

This all transpired at a funeral. Let's just say funerals are really good at getting you thinking about what's important. I sat there at this funeral wondering to myself if there was any relationship that needed repairing in my life because I can't imagine the guilt on either part if one or the other of us would die. I know this all sounds very morbid, but it's a reality. People are gone in a blink of an eye. Life is precious and so are the people in it. I just needed her to know that there are no hard feelings on my part and that in the event she ever wanted my friendship back, she would know I'm still here. No strings attached. I've stopped chasing her and all the memories and I'm letting life take it's course, but I still needed her to know that I'm not some scary person. That the situation between us hasn't taken on a life of it's own and all the horrible scenarios regarding the situation that somehow get created in the mind during an absence aren't true.

I just realize there is no place in life for unforgiveness and silence.