Life and Death

I understand the world is a busy place, but when is the last time everyone reflected on life and death?

Reflecting on death is a reminder of one’s mortality. The process of death and dying always follows living. Life and death keep recurring after each other. It’s just how it works.

Physically, everyone is made of cells. As all cells don’t die at once, the generations of cells keep the functions (brain function, heart function, etc.) of organs intact. If all cells died at once, then the body they form must also die.

Mentally, consciousness dies and reemerges all the time. This process is known as “samsara” in Buddhism.

So why should I reflect on death?

Most people go through their day-to-day lives thinking about what they need to accomplish for the day. The includes maintaining their jobs, taking care of their family, staying solvent, and staying healthy.

Life is demanding and requires determination and focus.

Usually, what makes people stop and think about death is a close call of some sort or the loss of a friend or relative. Perhaps this is good because I am not constantly worrying about death. Doing that would be morbid. But being reminded that life can be cut short and that I have to die at some point may teach me that I am only human.

My life is occupied with schoolwork, family, jobs, and extracurricular activities, but I’ve never sat down and reflected on the concept of life and death.

Where do I predict my death will occur?

Crazy as it sounds, I had no idea at first. I expected that. I have never thought about this concept in my entire life. I’m 19, and I realize I am young.

Two hours later, after extensive thinking, I foresaw a vision that showed me reality. I was able to make a prediction.

I predict my death will occur when I am 88 years old due to a heart attack in a hospital ER.

As a healthcare worker, I understand with an extensive family history of heart attacks, my old age, and a family history of elevated cholesterol and high blood pressure, the chances were high that I would encounter a heart attack one day. I will regret that I’ll no longer be a part of life on Earth with my family and friends and all that entails, but I wouldn’t fear death because I understand this happens to everyone. As a hospital pharmacist and a curious person, I would try to remember everything I could in the event and reflect on the many journeys and obstacles I’ve encountered in my life.

Then comes my family (my parents, wife, and kids), who will always be in my memories and whom I will miss very severely. I will reflect on everything I’ve done to ensure they live a happy, safe, and successful life.

As much as thinking about this concept had me in tears, it also showed how powerful I am. Accepting the reality that I will one day die is a formidable barrier that not many people can overcome.

Ensure I have established a legacy

“Carlos Brathwaite! Carlos Brathwaite! Remember the name!” — Ian Bishops comments after Carlos Brathwaite hits the winning six to win the T20 world cup for the West Indies.

I am sure you are wondering. Who is Carlos Brathwaite? He is a West Indies cricketer who is primarily known for hitting four consecutive sixes to win the cricket world cup for the West Indies. Think of a six like a home run.

Why did I quote Ian Bishop?

Ian Bishop, in a heap of praise and joy, established a legacy for Carlos Brathwaite. No matter how many decades pass by, Carlos Brathwaite will always be remembered for his memorable innings in the world cup final. That is his legacy.

Do I want to have a legacy?

Without a doubt, yes. I hope to be known as a hard-working individual who never gives up. I want people to see me and realize that nothing is impossible. I will never give up, even in the most challenging circumstances. People should remember me as an honorary family member, a person with a sense of humor, and a funny storyteller.

I wish I could light a bonfire of stories that lasts a thousand years. Eventually, no one will even remember why the fire keeps burning, just that they’ve always been telling and re-telling these stories.

I hope all the readers reading this article have a legacy as well. If you don’t have one, never say never. Everyone still has time to forge their legacy. Life is filled with opportunities and unexpected twists. Use that to your advantage and fabricate a memorable legacy.