I woke up this morning with three people in my thoughts: my father, John, and my two aunts, MiCha and WonKyeong.
Cancer claimed all three of them before they reached the age of 60.
And then I thought: I'm 46 now. If my mortality is based on the average age at the time of death for the last three close relatives then I probably have 13 or 14 more years left.
hmm...
Maybe that sounds morbid to some people but it's a reality check for me.
I'm certainly not trying to die before the age of 60, or turn into a self-fulfilling prophesy, but we don't have longevity in my family tree.
Why am I sharing this?
Because it is a reminder to my self to find joy in the work that I do; appreciation for the things that I have; love for my family.
- Say 'I love you' more often.
- Mean what you say; say what you mean...
- ...and speak kindly when you can. It is a choice.
- Work your job; don't let it work you.
- Get rid of the bad ju-ju in your life.
- Take a moment to appreciate nature.
- Find value in yourself and treasure it.
- Build the legacy you wish to be remembered by.
Maybe - just maybe - if I take care of my health and the world around me the earth won't be in a rush for my ashes.
*images were created by Meredith Loughran in Canva