Live your best life while you can
9 September 2019
Today I attended a funeral for the father of a dear friend who I’ve known since Year 6. This same friend lost her younger sibling to brain cancer four years ago, so today’s celebration of her father’s life brought back memories of the wretchedness and grief this family has already endured.
Today I attended a funeral for the father of a dear friend who I’ve known since Year 6. This same friend lost her younger sibling to brain cancer four years ago, so today’s celebration of her father’s life brought back memories of the wretchedness and grief this family has already endured.
My friend’s father was remembered during a beautiful service that featured laughter and smiles, anecdotes about special times, and photographs and videos depicting a life well lived and a gentleman who was well loved.
Even though there is sadness over his sudden passing, it was clear today that my friend’s father had left a legacy among his family and friends that life was about three things - having fun, loving others and being loved in return. I’m a firm believer that these are the building blocks for living a happy and satisfied life.
It’s definitely true what people say about how cancer changes the way you look at life and evaluate what is truly important. As a person living with high-functioning anxiety, I used to spend so much time focusing on the small and insignificant details or worrying about people/comments/situations/unexpected outcomes over which I had no control. It makes me realise what a fucking waste of time and energy I’ve invested into sweating over the small stuff during my 42 years!
It’s definitely true what people say about how cancer changes the way you look at life and evaluate what is truly important. As a person living with high-functioning anxiety, I used to spend so much time focusing on the small and insignificant details or worrying about people/comments/situations/unexpected outcomes over which I had no control. It makes me realise what a fucking waste of time and energy I’ve invested into sweating over the small stuff during my 42 years!
Anyway, I guess what I’m trying to say is that my perspective is changing and I’m seeing that life is for living - there’s no point dying with a mountain of regrets or sadness or anger dragging behind you as your legacy.
I’ve certainly had moments in recent months where I’ve pondered my own mortality and thought about the possibility of dying from cancer in the future. I’ve asked myself questions such as:
I’ve certainly had moments in recent months where I’ve pondered my own mortality and thought about the possibility of dying from cancer in the future. I’ve asked myself questions such as:
- “Have I achieved enough?”
- “Will my family remember how much I loved them?”
- “Who will comfort my son with a warm and squishy hug if I’m not here to do it?”
- "Will my husband know which songs to play at my funeral?” (Note to self: Discuss funeral playlist with Mr Uniboober)
It was clear today that Mr B’s family wanted him to be remembered for his mischievous personality, his love for his family and the love he received in return. After all, isn’t this what most of us want our lives to be about?
Humankind is full of possibilities and we should make the most of our short time on this earth.
Tell your loved ones that you love them but most of all, just live your life trying to enjoy the ride because you never know what the future holds.
