When I was close to death with pneumonia, I reflected on those things that, over the years, I most regretted. Oddly enough, they were not momentous moments, but smaller, personal things, like certain events I failed to attend, compliments I should have given, but didn't and the following is an example of a biggie.Many years ago in my childhood I knew a kid whose name was Clifford, but everyone called him "Pinkie." I don't know why. Perhaps because of his slightly smaller stature, however when full grown he was of average height. In any case, zoom forward 20 years and I encounter him with his teen son in the locker room of our health club.Without a thought I shouted out "Hi, Pinkie." Whereupon Clifford's face turned red and his son assumed a quizzical look. In a flash I realized that the dad who was a terrific athlete and provider was also "Pinkie." As I walked away I heard, "Yeah, Pinkie, that was my nickname." The minor incident has returned to haunt me evermore. Don't ask me why, but let me caution you here in the Gulch. Be careful what you say and who you say it to. It may come back to haunt you some day and not for the sake of others but for your own sake. I would dearly like to go back to be able to correct every faux pas, everyy unattended event, and every inappropriate smartass remark. However, the past is as unrelenting as fate.