Sometimes People Leave You Halfway Through the Woods

My nonagenarian Great Aunt Margaret, friend-maker par excellence & occasional wearer of jaunty hats. Original image copyright © 2021, the author

A friend wrote about his buddy’s death and here’s how I responded:

“I too have been fortunate enough, John, to lead a life cast with many magnificent friends who stick around. That’s why I wince when I read your post -- for I sympathize with the pain.