A life lived to the fullest.

My 99 year old neighbor Jim passed away today.  If you were to imagine a 99 year old man, you might think of someone who uses a cane or a wheelchair, perhaps someone with  a failing memory, or even some one who is bedridden.  Up until this past month none of these depictions would come close to describing Jim.  At 99, Jim still went dancing with his eighty-something girlfriend, went for a run most days, and in the summer he would swim a mile on every day that the weather allowed it.  Jim never got old; he just got older.  

Jim was one of a kind. When he was 93 yearsold, we were both at a benefit for a mutual friend who was battling cancer.  Jim asked me to dance.  At the time I was attending ballet classes and rehearsals for hours each day--I was unquestionably in shape.  Jim, however, managed to wind me.  He was an amazing ballroom partner and at 93 had far more stamina than I did as at 17.

Jim brought joy to all who knew him, and showed us all how to get older with out ever getting old.  Please as you say your prayers tonight, remember Jim.  

Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat ei . Requiescat in pace. Amen.