  Spiritual
This week: Live Like You Were Dying Edited by: Sophurky  
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Hi, I'm Sophurky ~ your editor for this edition of the Spiritual Newsletter.
The Rev. Scotty McLennan, author of the book Finding Your Religion, compares humanity's innate need for spiritual searching to climbing a mountain. In his view, we are all endeavoring to climb the same figurative mountain in our search for the divine, we just may take different ways to get there. In other words, there is one "God," but many paths. I honor whatever path or paths you have chosen to climb that mountain in your quest for the Sacred.  |
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Live Like You Were Dying
I'm not a fan of country music - there, I said it. Don't hate me!  But there is a song by Tim McGraw that always brings a tear to my eye or at least chills on my arm when I hear it. It's his song, "Live Like You Were Dying." The song is about a man finding out he's facing a serious medical situation and possibly even death, and when he's asked what he did after getting the news, he says (this is the chorus of the song):
"I went sky diving, I went rocky mountain climbing,
"I went two point seven seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu.
"And I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter,
"And I gave forgiveness I'd been denying."
An' he said: "Some day, I hope you get the chance,
"To live like you were dyin'."
Tim McGraw
I've been giving that song a lot of thought lately. It's been over a year since my mother died - even though she lived a full life for most of her 84 years, she wasn't ready to go, and wanted more time. She told us in the hospital she wasn't ready to go yet. My dad died 11 years ago at the relatively young age of 75, also telling us that he had not done all he wanted to do, and urging me to live my life fully and have no regrets. And now Mr. Sophy is having major surgery this week, which has got me thinking about how precious each day/moment of our life is.
I am sure as I can be at this point that Mr. Sophy will be just fine, and will recover well. Is is a very healthy 50 year old man, which gives him a positive edge in regards to surgery itself and to a full recovery. But as part of the hospital policy for admission, we have to bring a copy of his living will (which we both do have) and medical power of attorney to have on file. One we arrive he has to sign page after page of documents acknowledging the risks involved with any surgery in general, and his surgery in particular. And even though we feel as positive as we can be that he will be fine, these moments in life give one pause to reflect on not only our own mortality, but also to be cognizant of our blessings.
We are grateful for an early diagnosis, skilled medical professionals, and health insurance that will help pay for most of the cost - especially when we are aware of so many who do not have the coverage we do. We are aware of our wonderful family and friends who are supporting us every step of the way through, and will be there to lean on when we need help in days to come. And we are thankful to have a strong, supportive marriage in which we are good at taking turns taking care of one another during difficult times.
In terms of our mortality, we know that the moment we are born, the process of death begins. We are mortal creatures who have a limited span of days on this earth. Regardless of what you do or don't believe about an afterlife, our time on this mortal plane is brief and precious. And we need to be aware of that much more often than we are, and take the time to enjoy the moment we are in, rather than reaching toward an uncertain future. The only reality is NOW, so spend some time enjoying it.
A palliative nurse recorded the most common regrets of the dying and put her findings into a book called:
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1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled.
2. I wish I hadn’t worked so hard. This came from every male patient that she nursed. They missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship.
3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings. Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others.
4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved.
5. I wish that I had let myself be happier. This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not realize until the end that happiness is a choice.
What regrets might you have if you don't take the opportunity, right now, to live as if each day could be your last? Something to think about ...
That's all for this month - a busy week so keeping things short. Will update you on Mr. Sophy next time.
Blessings, Sophy
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Below you'll find some recent offerings from other WDC members. Don't forget to leave a review and rating if you read the item.
First a couple from some newbies to check out:
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And a few more from other members:
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Now for some comments about my last newsletter "Spiritual Newsletter (July 24, 2013)" about sacred writings:
From ANN Counselor, Lesbian & Happy 
Thank you for always reminding us there are various paths to God. Those who think the Bible is the only source have missed so much. Best they remember, it took the Catholic Church 200 years and six 'committees' to decide WHICH written books were 'inspired by God'; So, who's to say for sure they finally chose the correct books to call The Bible 'God's Word'? Many paths to the Creator for those who wish to Know their Creator, God. Let's see the religious 'right' fanatics with their bigotry and closed eyes and minds, open their eyes to the wonderful inspired writings that exist in every part of this world and in its history.
Amen!
      
From Donnamae
Thank you for the wonderful reminder about how stories can illustrate powerful and important life lessons. I like to use stories to illustrate empathy, of which I believe this world needs more.
I agree completely - thanks for sharing your item.
From bonzo1964
I am happy to see your Newsletter! There are indeed many paths up the mountain! I married a Taoist 38 years ago, and I am a Christian of many years. But I have learned a great deal just watching my husband live his life graciously & with meaning. I too have found the Tao, and already had been found by Jesus when I was only 12! I'm glad to see there are many others climbing their own individual paths. God loves us all and that is the essence of the Bible. Thank you for posting this. I hope many open their minds and LEARN MORE ABOUT THEMSELVES AND GOD!
Bonnie
Again - AMEN!
From Red Barron 
I just typed up a major response to your Newsletter. But my computer shut down. This was so interesting and brilliant. I wish for the same thing as your last sentences say. I hope you will be a pioneer at what you said how to write. I hope I will be too, since I like spirituality too.
Thank you for such interesting, uplifting words!!!! I will look for more of your writings Sophy!!!
Thank you for your kind words.
Please keep your comments and suggestions coming! Until next time! Sophurky |
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Spiritual: August 21, 2013 Issue [#5844]
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