8451. And Shrinking…

“Eight-thousand-four-hundred-fifty-one. And Shrinking…” That was his response. After I asked if he’d be participating on some project in which (it turns out) he had no interest whatsoever. I returned a perplexed stare, as if to inquire “what on Earth?”  So he explained.  That’s how many days he has left to live.

You see, he figures he’ll make it to his 90^th birthday—and then have a massive heart attack. Or get struck by a bus, or eaten by a saber tooth tiger, or something else tragically fatal. Each morning, he enters the updated (smaller) number into his calendar, just as a reminder that time is limited. That time is precious. And he’s not about to waste a single moment on any damn project that’s not deeply important! So his answer was an unequivocal “NO!”

Are you making the most of your minutes? As each day passes, do you take steps that advance your life’s mission?  That bring you deep fulfillment, or at least carry you closer to future goals? Or are you wasting time and energy on meaningless, empty, un-necessities: watching mindless TV; doing work you hate; gossiping about nothing; saying “yes” when you could care less? 

My number is 18,923.  At least for another few hours. And that’s only if I’m lucky enough to make it to 90.  Better do something important…

Article photo by Gregory M. Ross

2 Responses to “8451. And Shrinking…”

1. Scheimer says:

   October 15, 2009 at 6:05 pm

   This sounds like it came from one James Houlik…
2. David Cutler says:

   October 15, 2009 at 8:29 pm

   You are correct, sir. A savvy musician to boot, and a day counter!