THE COMEBACK:

DID YOU GET THE MESSAGE?

I APPLAUD YOUR EFFORT; HOWEVER, I AM THE ONLY ONE IN THE AUDIENCE AND I AM LEAVING EARLY!

THE MESSAGE:

I was married to a beautiful, intelligent and communicative person. We were both teachers; however, at different schools. Challenges were easy to conquer. Dreams were realistic. Goals were readily presented and many achieved. Opportunities seemed endless. We had the odd squabble but our pact was always that we should never go to bed angry! Any problems or differences were easily overcome because of the character of my unselfish and patient partner. Life was easy to manage. We enjoyed our jobs and new relationships. Family and old friends kept in touch and shared their experiences.

Along come the mid-life years. I refer to them as ‘My Dark Ages’. For me, life suddenly becomes a jumbled mix of ego, selfishness, ignorance and general confusion. I was convinced that I was the centre of the universe. I became unable to fully appreciate the depth of character that was the essence of my wife's being. Thankfully Ann’s love and understanding prevailed. I finally have somewhat grown!

TONY TODAY:

I put no yearly boundaries on the various stages of my life. They run together, some embarrassing and some revealing. The more I reflect, the greater the awareness. Each night I pray that I may be forgiven by all who are familiar with me. My beautiful partner recently passed away. My children and grandchildren are successful, loving and caring. My life has basically been put on hold. I reside alone and refuse to wander outside of Toronto. I can easily remember the good times that Ann provided. We had much fun and laughter in dining out, travelling, seeing the world, visiting relatives, living together and hosting our family in Fenelon Falls, Ontario.

THE MUSIC: