Bucket List

Let's face it; we are all list makers.  With a background in information architecture, I'm especially prone to making lists.  It's something I'm good at and enjoy doing (most of the time).  One list I've given a lot of thought to since my diagnosis is the bucket list.  For those of you unaware, a bucket list is typically a list of things you want to do or accomplish before you "kick the bucket" (aka die) or reach a certain age.  

Unlike many people, I made a bucket list when I was young and believed that I had an expansive timeline ahead of me.  It included seeing all the nooks and crannies of the world and other adventures like skydiving and flying a fighter jet (like the one in the picture).  Since then, a lot has changed, and I've made a few revisions to the bucket list as well.  It now reflects a sense of urgency and awareness those of us nearing the end of our journey experience.  I'm feeling a sense of urgency more so now than ever, given the declining state of my health, and my awareness of the importance of family and friends is something I will describe as "keen."  With a life expectancy that seems to be getting shorter and shorter each day, what will I do with the time I have left?

The answer has become clear:  I will be with family and friends every chance I get.  I will create memories and share my life with them.  No matter what we do, I will do my best to be present and a part of the experience.  I will reconnect with those who will have me and go the distance to make it happen.  Finally, I hope and pray I am never done ticking off items on my bucket list.