Death is a topic that may be taboo to some; avoid something we don't want to face. But the fact is we are mortal. When the time comes, and if you are prepared, it'll be more peaceful. All the forgiveness will be made. All the tough decisions will be taken care of. You will leave a legacy of good memories and relieve stress for your family members.
In January 2018, my son Evan recommended that our family read the book Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. My mom read it twice and recommended it to her sister and friends. She asked me if I read it yet...well....it's a book on aging and death. It is a taboo topic to some and something we must all face.
I finally read it. This book spurred new ideas and a better perspective on how my millennial son views life. He truly lives in the moment with a purposeful career and a balanced, harmonious lifestyle as a minimalist within his means.
Reading this book and related discussions with my mom made me reflect deeply on life, my actions, and the look at death with a realistic point of view. Being Mortal shares stories about other people's experiences as told by the award-winning author and surgeon.
I'm grateful to Evan for his recommended read. Our family has a better idea of maintaining a quality of life with grace and dignity until the end.
Generally, people look forward to retirement. Collect their retirement and finally live a life of leisure. Travel. Golf. Pickle Ball. Tick off the bucket list.
There are those with retirement within the next five years who want to do something more but are unsure what it is yet or how to start planning and preparing for those golden years.
And a few people have terminal illnesses and keep hoping to prolong life. No matter what it costs...Let's send them love, healing prayers, and Divine Light.
If and when you read this book, Being Mortal, I hope you will gain insights and lessons that are meaningful for you. My reflection and takeaways include:
Enjoy and appreciate the gift of life today. You may not have the opportunity tomorrow.
Prepare for your death; make your treatment choices known now when you're healthy. Noted, it's beyond the legal or medical paperwork. It's critical to have that important conversation and plan with your family.
Death is a topic that may be taboo to some - avoid something we don't want to face. But the fact is we are mortal. When the time comes, and if you are prepared, it'll be more peaceful. All the forgiveness will be made. All the tough decisions will be taken care of. You will leave a legacy of good memories and relieve stress for your family members.
Choose to spend your time and energy on what matters most. If you have to do everything, pause and reevaluate if that's true. Ask yourself why and if it's aligned with your life purpose and values.