...words

If you knew you were dying, what would your final words be?

I was at a luncheon where more than a dozen highly accomplished people were given two minutes each to answer that question. They were prominent scientists (including a Nobel Prize winner), successful business executives, and noted academics, doctors, lawyers, journalists, and one astronaut. Despite their imposing resumes, not one person made a single reference to their work or vast accomplishments.

It proved the truth of the insight underlying Harold Kushner's statement: 

"I never met anyone on their deathbed who said, 'I wish I'd spent more time at the office.'"

Our work may be a vital part of our lives, but in the end what matters are people and relationships.

All of the speakers addressed their last words to loved ones—a life partner, child, sibling, or special friend. The words were from the heart, and it was a touching experience. But what struck me most was realizing how unlikely it is that any of us will actually have the opportunity to deliver final words. Death is not likely to be that predictable or efficient.

The fact is, the way we live our life, the choices we make, and our daily words and actions may be the final messages we send to our loved ones. So if there's something you should say—expressing your love or gratitude or maybe regrets for things you did or failed to do about rifts in the relationship—say it now and say it from your heart.

-character counts