[ WP ] You 've been invited to a dead man 's party .

I am not the least bit fond of social gatherings, particularly ones designated as a *party*. The whole idea that people will congregate to make meaningless small talk blows my introverted mind. Now, I rarely get invited to such events because as the decades have past, people have finally figured out that I will not RSVP. Ever. Point blank, no question about it. Thomas D Worthington does not go to parties. 
 
 Perhaps my bitterness for people is more apparent to others than I am even aware. My own family evades me now, just as I have them for so long. I want to be sad about the situation, I truly do but those things, those *feelings*, just do not flourish inside of me. 
 
 But today may have just been the turn around for me. At the ripe age of 83, I finally received an invitation in my mail. I live in a small rural community out in Western Kansas, the colorado border just a few hours west. My closest neighbor is about five miles away and out here, the mailman makes it when he decides it necessary... whatever that means. 
 
 When I got to my mailbox, the crimson colored envelope stuck out from the usual pile of white paper I always receive. Naturally, I picked the envelope up first and the writing looked awfully familiar. I stared at it long and hard, attempting to figure out whose manuscript it could be, the challenge of the whole thing incredibly annoying. You know at my age, it can be frustrating when you think you should remember something and you ca n't. I finally gave in, sliding my fingers underneath the folds that were free of tape. 
 
 I begin reading, the sun beating down on me as I stand near the edge of the gravel road. 
 
 *Dear Thomas, * 
 
 *It has been so very long since we have seen your face. Your brother has been speaking about you more than normal and misses you dearly. As you know, he is getting very old and all he wants to do is see his younger brother one last time. If you would, please write us back and let us know what we can do to help you come out here to Massachusetts. * 
 
 *P.S. This is a party but we think it is one you will want to be at. FOR ONCE: ) * 
 
 *Love, * 
 
 *Chad and Rebecca* 
 
 It has been nearly twenty years since I have seen him. I, too, have thought about him often, especially as our years become limited by the second. My nephew and niece understand our bond, even if it has diminished over time. They are not too akin to having me around but for them to write this letter means my brother truly longs for my company. 
 
 Part of life is doing things for loved ones that you have no desire to do. That is called sacrifice and it is the greatest display of affection there is. Even a grumpy old man like myself understands this. So with that concept in mind, I guess it is off to Massachusetts I go. 
 
 I do hope he is in fine health. His smile will make the party worth it, that much is a guaranteed.
