#185: I Am Going To Die.

It is unlikely to happen today or tomorrow. However, my chances increase exponentially next week. I even signed up for it.

I am having an operation next week.

Nothing big, just my right shoulder. The paperwork required to prepare for the operation is extensive. Doctors do their best to explain the risks associated with the anesthesia and the surgery in detail. They highlight to you that any of the complications or side-effects are highly improbably, very rare and almost unheard of.

Having signed the two forms, I am ready to check into the hospital next week. Most likely, I will have forgoteen about today’s conversations and the long list of bullet points on those documents.

However, what has stuck with me is that life itself is risky.

I drove to the hospital by car. That carries risks of both injury and death. Having crossed the street on foot is equally risky.

One question that crossed my mind today was the one about my last few days of life. How would I live them if the week ahead actually was my final week?

Shouldn’t we live every day as if it was our last one?

I know that this sounds rather “cheesy” when we read it. However, it is filled with real meaning when actual circumstances trigger it.

What comes to mind is my loved ones. I would spend time with them, sit and laugh, experience those moments of joy. That is what I treasure most.

Sometimes we need a gentle reminder. Signing a form isn’t mandatory, although it highlights that life is no laughing matter after all.