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July 10, 2006

Eric's Story

I was in another town the other day, talking with my good friend Eric, and learned something. Eric, who is older than I, is the type of guy you want to have around when the chips are down. I mean, he is a standup get down type of guy and he'll cover your back. When the shit hits the fan, you can always depend on Eric. Eric understands Honor. Eric knows what true friendship is. Eric is a humble man. Eric is a bad ass. Eric is Bad Bad Juju.

Eric had just been to his doctor who informed him that, in his opinion, the muscles in his heart were deteriorating. His doctor said, you might die soon, but we'll run some tests in two days.

Eric said to me, "You know Yabu, if I die, so be it. I should have died when I was twenty. The last forty years were a gift. I remember when I was twenty years of age, laying in that rice paddy in Viet Nam amongst my buddies brains, intestines, and severed limbs. I was the only one not hit. The VC even blew up the chopper. Everyone died but me. So whatever happens, I'm OK with it.

This happened on his first tour, he volunteered for a second and was wounded multiple times on three separate occasions.

Anyway, I could hardly swallow when I asked him, if you do die, can I have your Pearl .45's? You might think this callous, but you're wrong, it's the way true friends communicate with each other.

Many years ago, we discussed this same situation. Very interesting - how people reflect.

Bottom Line: The doctor was wrong, and Eric and I have some more drinking and talking to do. Life is good!

But I still want the guns!!!

Posted by Yabu at July 10, 2006 01:26 PM | The Past



Comments

Brings to mind what Patton had to say about pearl handled guns.

Posted by: Bane at July 10, 2006 01:34 PM

Jesus! At first I thought you were talking about SWG Eric!
Now maybe he'll put in his will that he wants you to get the guns.

Posted by: Maeve at July 10, 2006 06:46 PM

Ah, looks like ya gotta wine him and dine him a little longer. ; )

Posted by: Key at July 11, 2006 08:28 PM