I lived my life. (in memoriam)

My friend: I did not live my life to write a book. I lived my life to live.

Me: I know that. But your life has been amazing.

My friend: Well, I didn't set out to make it amazing. I only set out to live each day.

Me: (smiles, nods "yes") I know... but that living has lead to a truly amazing life. Have you ever thought about writing it all down? Or even telling your stories and letting someone record them?

My friend: Oh goodness.  Another person wanting me to record everything. (smiles, shakes head "no")

Me: Why not?

My friend: Because my life has been my life. And your life will be your life. And why would reading or hearing my life story change yours? It should not be that way.

Me: Because you have wisdom and perspective. You have lived a full life and I am honored to learn from you.

My friend: Well, that may be so. But I'm not going to write or record anything - my life can live on through those that knew me and remember me. The rest of the world will  just have to figure it out.

Me: (smiles, nods head "yes") Then I will have to do my best to not forget you and to share what I know of you and your life.

My friend: Fine. (turns head and looks around, leans in closer) Really, it all boils down to one thing: remember to live your life to live it. Not to think about what you will look back on later, but instead to live each day. Just live.


This was a conversation I had with a patient (and friend) of mine almost weekly for six months.

She never wrote down or recorded any of her stories; however she did share them with myself, her family, and her friends. Those shared stories are where her memory lives.

It really all boils down to one thing: remember to live your life.