A Realization

Today marks the day that I realize I’m slowly dying.

As I woke up for the 14,612^th time, the earth finished its 39^th rotation around the sun since I first opened my eyes on this world. I took my 194 millionth breath, then I rose up, took a shower and brushed my teeth for the 28,470^th time. I got dressed and combed my hair for the 13,238^th time. I walked along the hall and down to solid ground. I said good morning to my wife and kids for the 5,112^th time and all of a sudden, I was reminded that nothing was permanent. I sipped my 2,100^th cup of coffee and headed out to my car.

I twisted the key for the 16,792^nd time and as I set out on a new adventure, I was hit with nice memories of past adventures now faded in time. As I parked my car, I take my 52 millionth step and I realized that as I take these steps, I’m not just counting up but I’m counting down as my remaining steps left to be taken slowly shrink. It’s in this moment that I realize that I’m slowly dying, folks. But the good news is so are you. We all are. Suddenly the appreciation for life and all its fragility wells up inside of me.

I stand and I suck in that sweet Malaysian air knowing that any breath, any step, any key-twisting, hair-combing, coffee-sipping adventure could be my last. Your last. Life’s slow but life’s fast. So, on my 14,235^th day on earth I will start my 14 millionth sentence by saying “2023, baby. Let’s smash it”. Spread love. Create something beautiful. Maybe an unusual cultivated passion. Don’t let life pass you by. And don’t shy away from shedding tears from your eyes. In fact, I just did it yesterday for the 362^nd time. Promise me one thing. On the anniversary of your grand entrance into this world, thank the selfless soul who facilitated the process and make sure you tell her “I love you”.

Hold your family close to your heart. Just don’t take life too seriously. Reach out to friends. Have fun. Explore. Don’t let life pass you by.

At one point you’re small and young, and then eventually you’re old. But you know it’s just part of that natural process of life. So, enjoy it. Peace.