Whether you’re a fan of country music or not, there is a strong probability that you’re aware of Toby Keith’s recent passing. Toby was an American country music singer and songwriter, in addition to being a record producer, actor, and business owner.
I wouldn’t say I’m a tremendous fan of Toby, but he certainly put out some great hits that I’ve been listening to for years now. One of my favourite songs of his is How Do You Like Me Now? as well as Beer for My Horses.
I was aware that Mr. Keith was battling cancer, but I was still saddened to hear of his passing considering how young he was. The day following his passing, I was having lunch at my parent’s home. They use Sirius Satellite radio, and one of the country stations they listen to was offering a tribute to Toby Keith by playing his music, consecutively, for several hours.
I noticed the tribute and made mention of it to my parents, and my Dad said something along the lines of why is it we only remember and appreciate someone once they’re gone? and it encouraged me to reflect on the idea that remembrance is a concept solely affiliated with death, when in actuality, it absolutely has ties to life.
Granted, the idea of memory and remembrance is one that commonly presents itself after someone has passed on, but it doesn’t need to be isolated in its meaning or importance. It might seem a bit ridiculous to ‘remember’ someone while they’re still here with us, but perhaps consider interpreting the notion of remembrance as one with ties to appreciation and recognition; we can remember and acknowledge the accomplishments of people and remind them of them long before they’re gone, and rather, while they’re still with us to hear and absorb our remembrance.
Photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash
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