Thank you, Doug

Today is the first anniversary of the sudden passing of my good friend, Doug Zimmerman. While out for his daily 5-mile lunchtime run, he collapsed, and never regained consciousness. Doug was 52 years old.

Doug was a geologist, experienced mountain and ice climber, and lifelong public servant at the CT DEP. He could fix anything, never spoke ill of anyone, and was always the life of the party (as long as there was beer, preferably the cheap kind). The more he drank, the nicer, funnier and more lovable he became. Not a mean bone in his body. I’ve never known anyone else like him.

A year later, I now realize just how deeply Doug’s life and unexpected passing have affected me. And, inspired me: To live more fully; to be kinder, more patient, and more giving; and, most importantly, to not take people or the gifts of time and good health for granted.

I started my first blog at RequiredReading.com back in 2001. A few months later, the towers came tumbling down and I lost all desire to write. One day, I thought, I’ll start again. But what happened was that I blinked, and a whole decade slipped through my fingers. Ironically, Doug’s unexpected passing has been my much-needed, albeit unscheduled, “what the fuck are you still doing in bed at this ungodly hour?” wake-up call.

So… No more screwing around. I’ve got work to do. New businesses to start. Adventures to take. And yes, new blog posts to write. But this time it’s different. Now I hear the clock ticking.

But where do you begin when staring at a blank slate? It’s simple – right where you are. For me, it starts with a short tribute I wrote and read aloud earlier today at a neighborhood ceremony in Doug’s honor:

This is how I will remember you, Doug…

A real man
Filled with vigor,
a zest for living,
and a never-ending sense of adventure
Fearless, sometimes to a fault

You worked hard,
but you played harder
Always in search of a new adventure
But always happy to come home

Thank you, Doug, for always giving
We knew we could count on you to share good things:
A helping hand or some special problem-solving wisdom
A tasty beverage at the end of the day
Your smile, jokes and laughter
A story made funnier simply because you were telling it

The way you lived life was an inspiration to all of us
Filled with joy and passion
Dedicated to your work
But devoted to family and friends
Especially your one true love

Gone too soon
But never forgotten
I consider myself lucky to have called you a friend

Thank you, Doug, for your friendship and inspiration.
And for helping to light the fire again.

PS – You can learn more about Doug at CragMan.com, a tribute site set up by his wife, my dear friend, Bet Zimmerman. This is where you will discover everything you need to know about  how to cope with a sudden and devastating loss – and that it’s always possible to create a new life worth living. Graceful grieving, one day at a time…