Two things we know: One…we will all die. Two... if you are reading this, then it is safe to assume that we are very much alive. We can act accordingly, planning ahead and taking care of details. We can also live with the end in mind, ensuring we make the very most of every moment we have on Earth.
It begs the question: What will you do today that will be remembered?
"When your time comes to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way.
Sing your death song, and die like a hero going home."
— Tecumseh
The founder of Panera Bread described in a recent article that each year he takes time to thoughtfully and thoroughly reflect on an important question: "What can I do in the next three to five years that I will respect looking back from my deathbed?"
His goal is to ensure that when that inevitable end moment arrives, he will be able to avoid the deep sense of remorse many experience in remembrance of unfulfilled personal relationships, unachieved goals, and the failure to pursue desired dreams.
Put your house in order, because you are going to die.
— Isaiah 38:1
Feeling the immense sadness of regret is a very difficult way to end our journey here.
We can prevent even more heartache for family and friends by planning ahead and taking care of the many details and decisions that are necessary to move forward.
Such a sobering perspective is beneficial, helping us stay focused on our goals while also wisely ancticipating the distractions and hurdles that could disrupt those plans.
Failing to consider what could go wrong impedes our ability to adapt and persevere.
When I stand before God at the end of my life,
I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say,
'I used everything you gave me'.
—Erma Bombeck
Remembering the end goal anchors our direction as we evaluate available priorities.
We're humble enough to acknowledge that no one manages time, but rather we have the daily responsibility of choosing the wisest priorities that align with our purpose.
Setting our minds on the desired destination provides powerful clarity and energy. Perhaps the best advice is to always be doing something that will be remembered fondly just in case we die in the midst of it. That's a life-long lesson worth learning.
You've been given the miraculous gift of life, my friend. Make the most of everything you've been given.
