This is the Old Man’s story about his life - the important events, struggles, learnings and its significance.  Herein is what he wishes for others to know as he closes in on 20 years shy of the century mark.  He’ll be 80 in December.

Writing the Old Man’s story was appealing to me as I was myself feeling a bit old and nostalgic - after recently reaching the ripe ol’ age of 60.  Of course I am a mere child compared to the Old Man.

In recent years, the Old Man has become very important to me, as a friend, confidant and mentor. We have frequently discussed his life and pieces of the story you will find here.  He put off the writing of this several times.  For no apparent reason the day after my 60^th, the Old Man committed, “let’s get my book done, Book!” 

With significant health issues entering the picture and personal loss now dotting his life more and more frequently, he felt it to be the right time.

As we begin he tells me of his brainstorm to tie his book to one of his favorite movies and books, ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ by Hemingway.  Being an old man himself now, he thought it would be cool to write his story with such obvious links (which you will see) to Hemingway’s story.

The ‘SEE’ in the title of the book he suggests, is about what he has SEEN in life.  It is also about what he SEES now and wants to share as he nears completion of his story.  ‘The Old Man and the SEE’ didn’t end up being the title as you see; copy write concerns, etc.

Let me also share with you that he was adamant about this not being too God-heavy!  He feels strongly that although he is a Christian and Believer himself, he wanted anyone and everyone to be able to read, appreciate and gain from his life’s story.  He and I collectively apologize if we failed in this regard; we are both sinners and are in no position to challenge or judge your beliefs.  As you will see the Old Man had plenty of vices and flaws in his actions and behaviors – past and present.

I agreed to do what I could to capture his life’s journey to the best of my ability. The book is a compilation of pieces of his life currently as well as experiences from his past.  There are indeed parts that I felt were unnecessary to mention (like what kind of juice he likes and dislikes).  He was adamant about some of the funniest things being in his book, but it is his story.

‘Everyone seems to have an interesting story…’ the Old Man and I have visited and revisited this thought frequently.  His life has spanned 79 years as we embark on this.  For perspective, his time of birth included:

·         FDR’s landslide victory, our 32d President

·         The World Wars were in our midst

·         Jesse Owens was kicking Hitler’s butt in the Berlin Olympics

·         The first helicopter took flight

·         Postage stamps were .03 cents

·         The book (not the movie) ‘Gone with the Wind’ was published

·         The Midwest Dust Bowl phenomenon was ravaging the country

·         Babe Ruth began his professional career

·         …and the first beer was canned for sale!

Forgive me for where it may not flow or transition so well. His 1) stories, 2) current life happenings and 3) lessons to share make it a bit challenging how to capture him. 

With health issues going on, we are just writing it throughout his days now as he is able, you’ll see.  As it has turned out, this is kind of the Old Man and myself jointly telling his tale…..now and then!