I raise my glass...

As I've approached the end of my first full month in a new career and new perspective on my life, I find myself sitting, very aware of the tranquility listening to the crackle of the fire.  Spending the evening with an old friend I find myself deep in reflection and life evaluation.  Josh and I became friends in high school.  As most high school acquaintances do, we lost touch over the years.  I often found myself following his adventures via Facebook.  Reading his posted quotes provided inspiration, I desired my own risk as he was off skiing the perfect line, mountain biking a new trail or winter camping prior to a mountain ascent.  

It had been years since I'd seen him and had only been able to read about his life, going, doing, experiencing, BEING.  In late November, I ran into Josh at the Teton Gravity Research film tour.  It's by no mistake that I've now seen him three times since that occasion.  To mark the occasion we opened a bottle of Dogfish Head, Theobroma, a rare and ancient Mayan recipe paired with a dark, rich, full bodied cigar. Standing in sub-20 degree temperature visiting with my friend, I realized, I was finally living what I had only read about.  Conversation flowed, mainly of the missed opportunity of many to live simply, not allowing oneself to get caught up in stuff, schedule or deadline.  Truly living like there is no tomorrow.  

The evenings conversation arrived at a common mindset and a desire, never take for granted the freedoms that we now have, live this life to the fullest and share our experiences with others.  I don't share my experience to boast or brag, but to prod.  What are you missing out on, a powder day, a hike, an afternoon in the park with your kids?  So, Josh, I make this request, don't shut down your Facebook page, people are watching and your journey may change someones life.  

Here's to you Josh, I raise my glass of SRB, Buzz Buzz Porter.  Thanks for dangling that life preserver out there on Facebook for a white collar, corporate guy like me.

Cheers

Ryan (aka Justin Timberlake), Josh and myself at SRB in McCall