What if today was your last day?
Posted on July 29, 2013
My sister-in-law lost her battle with cancer yesterday. She was only 56 and she fought for her life every step of the way for the past eight months, but it was a battle she could not win.
As a family, we were fortunate that we had time: time to say things we should have said years ago. It doesn’t change the outcome but it has helped in a small way. We may still wish that we had done some things differently, but we’ve forgiven each other our frailties.
My sister-in-law said cancer was the “best thing that ever happened to her”—not because of what she had to endure but because when facing mortality—your own or a loved one’s—petty things and past grievances just don’t matter.
What if you knew today was your last day? What would you do differently? Are there things you’ve left unsaid? Is there someone in your life you’ve been meaning to say “I’m sorry” to or “I love you”? Maybe there’s nothing left unsaid—but do your friends and family know you care?
If today was your last day, what would you wish you had done differently?
Very poignant post. My condolences to you and your family.
I am sorry for your loss. I definately think it makes a difference with the grieving process when you have time to say goodbye vs. when someone passes away quicky and unexpectedly. Even though I was very close to my Mom and we talked every day about everything I still wish I had time to say goodbye before she passed. Her passing has made me see that material things mean nothing and it’s the kind of person you are while living that people will remember.
I am very sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing this post. You bring back memories of my dearest friend who I lost this past March to brain cancer. She radiated love; it came from her eyes and touch, her very being. She always said “I love you.” In the end, her home was full of love with family and friends. There wasn’t a funeral but a gathering of friends and family sharing stories of a one-of-a-kind person, and celebration of her life. A cancer diagnosis will make you stop and smell the roses together. I have no regrets and lots of memories to keep me strong.