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Be The Best.

One last 2025 post.

So you know how these end-of-year posts go.

A look back at the year that was, a look ahead to the next year. This is kind of like that, just with decades, not years.

One of the best quotes I’ve stolen this year goes like this – days are long, years are short. That is a poignant thinker!

When you have young kids and the task list seems endless from daybreak to lights out, you know the feeling. If you have aging parents and the care needs affect schedules and priorities, you know the feeling.

Of course, this year marks 15 years since Chris’ passing. That is CRAZY to think about. What we would give to get back to the days of insane lacrosse schedules married with regular life stuff! The years are now very short, looking back.

Rev Jake, Chris’ GPa, my father, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning in his sleep at 94 years of age. All of the adjusted schedules and time and planning to get him to see Silver Star one more time (2023), the 18 ‘last time’ crepes from River’s Restaurant, connections with grandkids and his family – are now just a flashing moment in time.

I think that is the mystery of life. It’s hard to know what you have in the moment. Some moments seem long. When they are gone, believe me, they seem short.

Chris LOVED his Grandpa and you can read about that in many of these posts. I think it’s a very fitting way to conclude this 15 year restrospective of Chris’ passing.

I know Chris, my Mom and others are welcoming Dad to the clouds and I’d be surprised if Chris hasn’t already challenged him to a ping pong game or even push up rally.

I wish you all the very best as you navigate life with your families in 2026. The weird thing about life and love is that it doesn’t exist without death or loss. Savor the moments, even the ones that feel rushed and busy, cause the days may feel long at times, but the years will certainly feel short.

Max, Mom, Dad (Gpa to Chris!) and Chris – 2009

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By Randy Friesen

Randy Friesen is a business strategist, manager and educator based in Vancouver, BC. He is also a husband and father. He loves the creative process and is active in creating art and music.

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