The doctors were wrong, of course. Chester’s heart never failed him. It never failed him in 62 years, so why at the end?
The idea is preposterous. It had to be something else.
But there is another way of looking at it as we – his friends who loved him so well and so long – say our final farewells in our own personal ways. Chester was all heart. Ask anybody who cherished his friendship through the years and they will tell you “That Chester! He’s all heart.”
So perhaps if a man is all heart that part must travel to meet God with the rest of the mortal body
But you will notice the present tense: “He’s all heart.”
Because, you see, he will never admit that Chester isn’t here, just around the corner, down the street or as far away as a telephone call.
Chester lives! He lives in the memories of those countless friends who shared his warmth and gentleness and were privileged to be given his friendship and often his love. Chester, you must understand, was the kind of God-gifted person who took the whole world to his heart.
No man was Chester’s enemy and he was never known to say an unkind word about a fellow human. Nor did he ever refuse his help, in whatever form that help was needed.
Yes, Chester lives. He lives because we refuse to permit anything else and will never forget him.
Unlike old generals, men such as Chester do not fade away.
They live forever in the hearts and memories of those who soon will see him again. Just around the next corner.
Bill Morris forwarded the following poem with a note that reads:
“Dear Paul: Our good friend Chester carried this poem in his wallet. I’m sure you will agree that this sets forth his philosophy of life. I know he’d like you to also have a copy.”
If you think you are beaten, you are.
Author Unknown
If you think you dare not, you won’t.
If you like to win but don’t think you can,
it’s almost a cinch you won’t.
If you think you will lose, you’re lost.
For out in the world you’ll find
Success begins with a fellow’s will,
It’s all in a state of mind.
For many a game is lost
Ere even a play is run,
And many a coward fails
Ere even his work is begun.
Think big and your deed will grow.
Think small and you’ll fall behind.
Think that you can and you will;
It’s all in a state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are.
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You ever can win a prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But sooner or later, the man who wins
Is the fellow who thinks he can.
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