You are loved and appreciated, Dave. It’s an honor and a privilege to walk alongside you and all the Gold pickers here on the forum.
Dave Long's Health Updates
13 Likes
Don’t be too insecure, @Luke_L!
Hi Archie (@Archie), I do not think Dave would take it as disrespect especially at the backdrop of himself saying he was not offended by whatever I mentioned earlier. I tend to think this way. It is whatever in one’s heart, the attitude, is what could make others feel respectful or disrespectful, and not so much as the words spoken, though I understand words could cause miscommunication at times. In other words, I do not disrespect Dave in any way, in fact I respect him also because he showed concern towards me in one incident that I vaguely remember he may still remember/know!
Btw, it was you who first introduced the speckled bird in this forum, if I am not wrong! Love this tune - General chit chat - Forum - Banjo Ben Clark Also, the song writer/singer was a son of Baptist preacher and of Scottish descent! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roy_Acuff (But whatever you shared when I shared, it takes a different turn means there is something to it!) 
It’s a long day, I’m tired, see you all tomorrow!
@Dave_Long I am stunned and at a loss for words. I’ve been sitting here staring at my keyboard for quite some time.
So I’ll just type… I am so thankful for your friendship and encouragement over the last decade (plus). It feels surreal to be typing these words, but I’ll just type them anyway… I have gotten to know you through music we have shared. I have gotten to know you through our posts. We may have never met, but given that handicap, I feel like I know you quite a bit. I love you and I am going to miss you my friend. I look forward to meeting you when we both have left this world. If there is anything I can do, let me know. I am and will be praying for you.
16 Likes
@Dave_Long , you are definitely a positive encourager on this forum. Even though I don’t play my fiddle much right now, you definitely gave good advice that I always pop in my head when I grab my bow.
You are correct about friendships on this forum. It’s amazing how close you can feel to people on this gorum that we may never meet face to face. You are a friend and the handle Fiddlewood has be said in my home. Take care friend!
14 Likes
I’m not insecure. I don’t even think that’s the right word for this discussion. You are trying to make every thread about your “religious” church discussions. Even the threads that are about serious subjects. Keep it to yourself.
2 Likes
I guess our prayers have been answered!
Peace be with you.
8 Likes
@Luke_L, I think it is not appropriate we discuss our differences in this thread. I’ll leave it at that here.
Finally.
2 Likes
Had a very good and productive day today.
Talked to a lot of people and got a lot of things settled and off my plate.
Shout out to @Mike_R. It was great to actually talk to you on the phone after all this time! I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation. haha That dog looks awesome!
18 Likes
Hello Dave,
One Troll to another, you will remain in our prayers. My prayer is that t he Lord will provide you and your family the strength and understanding to remain in His will. He is always faithful.
For those unfamiliar with the term Troll…it’s a reference to those of us who were born and live under The Bridge. It’s what differentiates us from the da UPers.
5 Likes
Likewise, Dave. It was really great talking to you. Glad you had a good day and yes, Gandalf (the dog) is a better one than I deserve! 
6 Likes
Update:
After much thought, and many conversations with Dr.s, survivors, and those who participated in end of life of their loved ones I’ve made the decision to forego any chemo and focus on the quality of each day rather than the number of them.
I’ll be on palliative care until such time as I’m house-bound and hospice takes over.
13 Likes
Thanks for the update, Dave. We know those decisions are hard, but glad you have a well thought out plan with support systems in place. Enjoy each day. You are an inspiration, my friend.
8 Likes
Thanks for that Dave!! You are still in prayers, friend!!
8 Likes
I know that’s a tough decision but so often the best. I’m praying for extended and high quality days ahead!
13 Likes
@Dave_Long Not to judge anyone who chooses differently, but I strongly suspect that is likely the same conclusion I would have come to if I had the same situation. It makes perfect sense to me. Again, just my opinion, but I think you really get it right when you choose to focus on the quality of each day. Your choices and desires will shape the words of my prayers for you.
11 Likes
I’m sorry to hear that. I’ll be praying for you. It was nice to get to meet you at one of the cabin camps. You’re a pretty cool guy. I’m glad you have closure about the situation, that’s definitely not something everyone has and really helps the people around you.
7 Likes
Thanks Scott.
I enjoyed meeting you as well!
No one could be more surprised at my reaction to all this than I am. Maybe my faith is stronger than I realized. The amount of acceptance and comfort with the situation that I am experiencing is not at all what I ever would have thought it might be.
I’ve had a few breakdowns and tears, as might be expected, but they were pretty much do to being overwhelmed by the the amount of support & compassion I’ve received from a far greater number of people than I ever would have imagined, and not from any regret or sadness about my situation. I can’t understand it in any other way but that the mental comfort and ease I’m feeling isn’t originating from me.
Update: Started some new meds that have done a great job so far of stopping the shakes & cramps I was getting in my hands. I can hold and play the fiddle again. Sounds a bit rough with the time taken off from playing, but Its great to be able to play something again!
18 Likes
Sounds like you have what they call peace that surpasses understanding.
17 Likes