Jack and Robert had been friends for many years. During their

childhood, they had lived next door to each other and had spent many happy hours playing together. After graduation from college, they both found good jobs and settled down in the same city. One day, when Jack and Robert were supposed to get together to play basketball, Robert sent Jack an apologetic message explaining that he would not be able to make it. Two weeks later, Jack finally heard from Robert. They would not be playing basketball together again. Robert had been diagnosed with cancer and was not expected to live more than a month. He asked Jack to come and visit. Jack wanted to but, he was not sure what to say to Robert.