As I get older, I am becoming keenly aware of the people who are genuinely in my corner that I could depend on through thick and thin. Life can be ironic in that you assume that you can immediately identify the individuals that will be by your side through prosperity and adversity. Unfortunately, this is not always the case and you end up being extremely disappointed more times than not. At the same time, however, you are pleasantly surprised at others who astound you with their loyalty and their genuine hearts.      At times, I have wondered if being let down by those that I put all my stock in was my own doing. Perhaps I deluded myself about the nature of these interpersonal relationships and my support and loyalty was not reciprocated to an equal degree. I have realized, though, that I have not changed. I am still the same person that I have always been.  I will concede, however, that I am keenly aware of the realities of life as well as my own mortality. Aging and … [Read more...]