Page 86 - Dash Inspirations by Linda Ellis

Expiration Date
My father would often say in a joking manner that it would be better if we were each born with an “expiration date” on our forehead, like a carton of milk. In that way, we could better plan the route we chose to take during our journey on earth, as we would know definitively the date of our ultimate departure.
Death is our most common, common denominator. It is the single bond that unites every living creature. It is what ultimately makes each of us a part of everything. Yet, the mention of the word brings incredibly varied reactions from people. We all know it’s the truth, yet we are hesitant, men- tally reluctant to embrace the reality. However, the truth is, the sooner we “deal in real” and face the fact, the sooner we can truly begin living our dash. I’m going to die. You’re going to die. The cat lying on my feet while I write this, the blooming rose outside my window, and the woman who handed you coffee this morning on your way to work are all going to die. We cannot learn to appreciate the immeasurable worth and value of the life with which we have been blessed until we honestly realize and completely comprehend how utterly transitory it is.
This realization entered my own life after I’d read the words of a letter that had been routed around the office where I worked many years ago. The wife of an employee whose demise was imminent had penned it. I was so moved by her letter that I saved a copy of it and continue to live by her words:
Regrets? I have a few. Too much worrying. I worried about finding the right husband and having children, being on time, being late, and so on. It didn’t matter. It all works out, and it would have worked out without the worries and the tears. If I would have known then what I know now . . . But I did, and so do you. We’re all going to die. Stop worrying and start loving and living.
Her words stuck with me. Her letter made me stop and think. This is it. This is all we get. It is an absolute, inarguable, and unfortunate fact that there will come a day when each of us will run out of tomorrows. Once we eliminate the effects of any hopeful uncertainty, and can openly discuss death as a reality—even if only with ourselves—true appreciation for life can begin.
Dash Inspirations by Linda Ellis www.LindaEllis.life
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