I got a document in the mail today from the outfit down in Texas that throws a gas royalty check my way, once in a while.

It was looking for in-depth information about my brother, who died earlier this year. I think they were trying to transfer his royalties to his next of kin, but I know nothing at this point.

I emailed his last wife when I found out he had died, but I never heard back. I assume she is also gone.

How sad that families can become so detached. I can't even name all of my grandkids, much less their kids.

Maybe one day a relative of mine will receive the same letter.