The note arrived in the mail on Monday. And it hit me like a freight train. My good friend, and a man with a darn fine mind, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He is in his 60's.

Not long ago, a news report shared that Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's husband had been institutionalized with Alzheimer's. In his new home, he had found a new girlfriend and no longer recognized Justice O'Connor or their children. She had had a number of years to watch his decline, so the justice was accepting the news with grace and dignity. We all know Alzheimer's is a tragic disease - but it is tragic both for those who have it and for those who love them.

As a pastor, I watched many families lose a loved one or dear friend slowly over time. Helplessly watching as the person faded away in tiny increments each day or week.

I give thanks for the people who are doing hard work and research to find the root causes and/or cures for this awful disease. And I give thanks for my good friend, whom I love very much. He has shaped my life in remarkable ways for 20 years. And he continues to do so in a new way.