My Recent Visit with Smurf and Les

Last Friday, 10/31 I flew to Atlanta where I was picked up by Les Honson. Together we drove the 7 hours to Memphis to visit Smurf. I will post pics soon. Suffice to say the three of us while not what we were still maintained a chemistry and ease together that only comes from seasoned old friendships. It was great to spend the weekend with them.
Les has lost much - not just his hair. His work as a a construction guy is much declined so he is struggling a bit financially. Sadly his marriage is over and his kids hold him accountable. As such, while they spend time with him, they are somewhat estranged. He continues to have his passion for passion and his love of love. He is more suited to a storefront coffee bistro than a rooftop shingle job.
Smurf has gained much - not just pounds. He has a steady secure job which has enabled him to purchase a lovely home in a nice neighborhood. He also is Memphis royalty. There was no where we went where he was not known; this was particularly true of the buffet. The king of Memphis took us to a half Asian and half soul food buffet. There I consumed hog mawl and neck bone alongside rice noodles and General Tso's chicken. Smurf had four plates - this says much about his 350 pounds. I only mention his weight as he is most unhealthy. While I couldn't get all the details out of him, I think he may have congestive heart failure. His legs swell and his chest gurgles. I fear my 50 year old buddy may not live to 55. I challenged him with a weight loss goal for both of us. When achieved, I will go to Memphis and w will celebrate. I love Smurf and fear for him. Pray for him please. He remains hilarious and fun to be with.
On the drive back to ATL, somewhere in Mississippi, Les popped in some Toby Mac. We grooved to "One World" and knew we were still 22 at heart. I think I actually felt my hair grow for a second. It was great to be back in that zone for just a moment.