A Shy Man's Tale. Viewpoints: 8. G. Death
A Shy Man's Tale. Viewpoints: 8. G. Death
"All say, "How hard it is that we have to die" - a strange complaint to come from the mouths of people who have had to live." - Mark Twain
I guess that I've always known that no life will ever be complete without a death at its end. I can't every remember when I didn't realize that, even when very, very young.
I'm a believer in God and an afterlife. But many of those I know who believe in things very similar to what I believe still fear death immensely.
When I was younger, I often did things that I would never even attempt today. Did I think I was immortal? No, of course not. I was just ignorant, not taking into account the dangers of some of those riskier actions. (I'd call it the "forever 18" syndrome.) At that time I didn't think all that much about death. I still don't. But I realize that the possibility is always there.
When I was so severely ill in the summer of 2002, I definitely realized how sick I was and that there was a possibility I might not pull through (I didn't realize it at the time, but the doctors were more worried than I was.) I'll readily admit, however, that it would have been very easy to just give up the fight and slip away. But giving up is something that is not in my nature. That is something that I've just never, ever done. I can admit that I've looked death in the face, and not given in. I've found that I don't feel I'm finished with life, I haven't accomplished everything I've wanted to do yet. Taking a look at the history of the men on both sides of my family, it looks like I might have about 25 years or so to finish it up. I'd better get busy, there's lots to do. If death comes earlier than that, it comes, but I no longer fear it. I don't desire it either.
"The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time." - Mark Twain
Return to Home Page for "A Shy Man's Tale"