Tony Parsons-Men from the Boys

Wanted to do this review for a while but just couldnt find the time to. Alas, I've again forgotten most part of the story. But I will try to the best of my ability to recall the story, while in the midst of trying to write up a seminar critique for school.
Although the book did not get off to a good start, after a few more turns of the pages, it turned out to be a wonderful read. I wouldnt say it is an exciting book per se, but it does make you want to read on. It gives you a glimpse into the leads' lives that were beginning to fall apart. After Harry's divorce to Gina, he was married to Cyd, a gorgeous woman with a thriving food catering business. Harry had custody of his son, Pat, now a teenager, who was being constantly bullied in school and who had had a crush on one of the popular girls. Things got a little complicated when Gina, the MIA mother decided to return to town, and build a bond with her son. It was then that Harry met an old veteran, who had been his father's platoon mate during the "Italian" war. Not long after, Harry lost his job, and his life began to unravel. Cyd eventually left him coz he was not bringing home the bacon and was squandering away on horses (taught by the veteran; i forgot his name unfortunately!). I cant really put my finger on it but I find the story bittersweet. Harry felt somewhat obligated to the veteran and perhaps, was also trying to find his father in the veteran. To perhaps make up for what had been lost between him and his father. Pat grew close to the old man as well, and was there for him, at his deathbed. Pat gained a grandfather.
I find this scenario very close to heart and rather heart-wrenching. There were times when I see an old lady and was reminded of my late grandmother. And I would feel as if I should do something for this old lady to make up for what I had not done for my grandma.
It is not a good feeling living with regrets but sometimes, we tend to forget the consequences of our actions whilst we are performing them. So easy to forget. So easy to be slipshod with ourselves and others around us.
I have been thinking a lot about the elderly these days, especially those with no kin and are not able to support themselves due to poor physical health. I feel we should do more for this group of people that most have neglected because they can no longer contribute economically to the society. This is a very sad and hard truth that most of us can only see values in materialism. I ought to do more..