We don't all get 80 years

Jennifer says: Last week my son’s grandmother was taken off life support after a sudden, massive stroke. She was about 80. Although she didn’t have a close relationship with any of us, we were of course saddened that we wouldn’t ever get the chance to become closer. She was a very strong woman who raised her six children on her own much of the time because her husband was frequently transferred to different locations. She wanted to be a teacher, and did so for a while, until she changed careers for financial reasons. She traveled, had lots of family and friends around and was respected by those people who she helped improve their lives. During this reflection on her passing and the things I’d learned about her over the years, I believe she’d lived a pretty full life. The other part of that reflection is that we don’t all get 80 years. I know it’s cliché but there’s a lot of truth in sayings like “Live each day like it’s your last.” I also know that’s not always feasible because of obligations. Most of need to get up and go to work, pay the bills, clean the house, take care of the kids and so on. In between doing what we have to, I think we need to find the time to do what we want to. Whatever that may be. It’s up to us to find that balance and pursue our own version of happiness while dealing with the necessities. So this is what I’ve learned from this experience: 1. I want to have a more joy in my life. 2. I would like to stop worrying so much about certain issues. 3. There will be drama in many family situations and I can choose how, or even – if, I want to deal with it. 4. I would like to shift some of my priorities. 5. I’m thankful that my sons and I still have my mother: and I think we do have a pretty close relationship despite the physical distance. Rest in peace K.S.H.