I had a unique experience last week that most of us only see on television. I was at a meeting, and had invited one of my best friends to attend. At the end of the meeting, he got up, started feeling faint, and soon felt pain in his chest. Thankfully, everyone acted quickly and he was rushed to the hospital and was resting comfortably in his room about two hours later. Had the people around him not been as quick thinking, the scene could have turned tragic.

Life is fragile – and we run around each day “getting things done” and not realizing the impact we make on so many around us. In this game, we don’t make the rules, sometimes we don’t follow the rules, but we cope with the experiences that are thrust at us. Sometimes, because we are so busy, we forget to tell people close to us how much we care. That surreal experience reminded me to be thankful for the people I have in my life, to express my appreciation for their contribution to it, and face each day as a new adventure. So, give your kids an extra hug tonight, tell them that you love them and how much they mean to you. I know I will.