The calibre of my day is invariably shaped by a set of identical characteristics: physical well being (sleep, exercise, nutrition), mental improvement (reading, writing), artistic features (photography, geography, material refinement) and social engagement. I hesitate to put society last on the list when it is probably my supreme endearment, the one without which I could least survive.  All the others are but additives to and interpretations of the central social theme.

By coincidence today my record of activity and achievement was generously enhanced by community with others. This is important as well because as one ages the erstwhile connections with others noticeably fade and dwindle. The adage about how hard it is to make good friends is by no stretch purely rhetorical.

The day began with an especially dynamic communication from a new acquaintance with whom I have shared only two tête-à-têtes over coffee and numerous emails. The engineering of our relationship amuses me because of our age difference (I am the elder) and the unexpressed intellectual bases of our attachment to one another (whether historical, literary, artistic or even real estate-related). It is part of the thew of the relationship that, contrary to what has often been my conduct, I patiently endure its on-going evolution and vitality. Of course from that broad spectrum of possible interested subject matter flow innumerable complications such as were evident in this morning’s decidedly political and legal nature whence in turn I cultivated my own thoughts and then shared with him.

Subsequently I received a short but empathetic email from a neighbour back home. This sort of cursory communication is nonetheless invigorating as a reminder that there are indeed others looking in from time to time, inviting – as I did of course – similar reply to strengthen the knot.

And finally I heard from an elderly British lady whose immediate family ranked among my erstwhile distinguished clients whom I had the pleasure to represent from my earliest days of legal practice almost 50 years ago. I am constantly astounded by her depth and capabilities.  Only days ago she celebrated her 92nd birthday.  And there isn’t a hint of diminishment or relaxation from her contribution to society.

Of course the paramount foundation of my social happiness is the one I am further privileged to enjoy right before my eyes. I speak of my life partnership which by further coincidence will succeed to 29 years in precisely a week from today.