A few months ago, I wrote about my reflections on Atul Gawande's Being Mortal. My conclusion upon completing the book about geriatric care and medicinal solutions to longevity? At such a young age, my life didn't create room to critically ask how the elderly are cared for and how one approaches the phases of post-sixties/seventies, and even death. I vowed to spending more time with these questions.
A friend of mine recently read that initial blog post and in response to the questions brought up by Being Mortal, she shared with me her daily mantra:
I am of the nature to grow old. There is no way to escape growing old.
I am of the nature to get sick. Every body experiences illness.
I am of the nature to die. Every living being experiences death
All that is dear to me and everyone I love are of the nature to change and I will one day be separated from them.
My actions are my only true belongings.
Every action unavoidably begets many reactions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand.
Thanks, Anna.