What would you do if you were told you had 60 days to live?
That is a question that has been on my mind lately. Someone I know was more or less told that this month. I wondered, what would you do? What can you do? Would you feel like you had a good run? Are you leaving things better than you found it? Will you be remembered, and for what? What is our true purpose here?
Did Ozzy know it was his last hurrah? What about Hulk? Brent Hinds certainly did not know. All 3 leave behind incredible, world altering legacies. Our dog is undergoing surgery this morning (she will be fine, we're told), but even the thought that she might suddenly not be around put me in a mental tailspin.
Bill Burr remarked once that someone had told him that you spend the first 40 years of your life collecting people, and your last 40 years losing them. At 42, I am finding that statement to be true, and very grounding.
So then why are we here, only to eventually depart? This answer is different for everyone, I can only seek it for myself. I won't shake the heavens like Ozzy Osbourne, but I can make sure I ensure great care is taken of those around me, that I help others when needed, enjoy each day and not get caught up stressing over trivial matters. I've written and released a lot of code and projects this year, those will live on well beyond me. I can say I am an author. I can say those around me enjoy my company. I take pleasure in cooking for others, playing guitar. I've helped others diagnose and get treatment for their sleep disorder issues. I don't lose my cool, I don't yell. I listen more than I talk (usually).
As much as I know, I understand that there is far more to learn still.
I am happy with my run so far, and I have a lot left to accomplish. I have room for improvement, I have time to help others. I will do that as long as I am physically able to do so.
Don't waste a single day.