I’m acutely aware my time remaining on this earthly plane gets shorter with every breath I take and every beat of my heart. I may not survive to see tomorrow. I ask myself: How do I ensure what I leave behind when I breathe my last breath is a greater legacy of love than the day before? I want to know when my heart beats for the last time that nothing important has been left unsaid nor deed left undone.
With Love,
Russ
About russtowne
I'm awed by the beauty of nature and the power of love and gratitude. Some of my favorite sensory experiences include waves crashing on rocky shores, waterways in ancient redwood and fern-filled forests, and rain. My wife and I have been married since 1979. We have 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren. I manage a wealth management firm that I founded in 2003. My Beloved is a Special Education teacher for Kindergartners and First Graders. I'm a published author of approximately 60 books in a variety of genres for grownups and children.
Russ Towne's A Grateful Man 
As grim as this thought is, it reminds us all that we have limited time and as such should make sure that all the important words are said and shared..
Hi, Mimi. It’s perhaps odd of me, but I don’t view it as grim at all. I neither fear death nor look forward to it, but I like to frequently acknowledge to myself it’s inevitability and often sudden occurrence so I’ll have no regrets when it happens. (My reply is in no way meant to suggest you fear, welcome, dwell on, or avoid the subject of it, my friend.)
Russ
That is why it is so important to tell your loved ones that you love them. No one knows when we go , luckily , so be grateful for evey day and live every day to the full.
Big hug Ute
That sounds like a great idea to me, Ute.
Russ
I think living life honestly and completely is the only way to accopmplish this and to never let an opportunity to share/express your love go by. By what I have come to know of you…you already do this…so continue!
I once had a dream (nightmare) that I actually died. Most people wake up right before they do die…I didn’t. My first thoughts as I was making the transition were on my loved ones. I didn’t want them to worry or be afraid of what life would be for them without me there. I went to each one (in spirit) and stayed with them until they understood that it was okay for me to go…this also gave each of us an opportunity to communicate any last things we wished to.
When I woke up I felt like I had a pretty good plan…in case I needed one. I only hope that I can make these things happen when the time comes.
That sounds like quite a dream you had, my friend! Thank you for your kind comment and for sharing your story.
Russ
🙂
Oh how beautiful, what a way to make sure that every morning begins with a smile and that you put your best sparkling, loving self forward throughout the day so that when you happy body hits the hay at night, it is with visions of blessings and smiles dancing in your head. And you can rest easily and peacefully knowing that your vision of love is firmly planted in the minds of others when their heads hit the pillow as well! ♥
I love how you wrote that, as it is certainly a key focus and goal.
Russ
It’s what we do everyday, isn’t it? Or at least we give it our best! ♥
Yes indeed. Right now, I’m dealing with another vicious attack of Trigeminal Neuralgia. It’s 4:15am and I’m in too much pain to sleep, and too sleepy to function. With each attack comes the possibility that the medicine won’t work. If that happens, the only way to end the pain without ending my life–there is a reason it’s called the Suicide Disease–is brain surgery. I’m rooting for the medicine to keep working.
Russ
Oh my Russ! My heartfelt prayers are being sent to you with much fervor for your healing! I pray the medicine works continues to work and that a miracle comes to you and to your beloved. I had no idea ~ forgive me my dear friend. Big hugs. ♥
Your comments, prayers, and hopes mean much to me, dear friend. There is nothing to forgive. How could you know? Your friendship brightens my life. Thank you!
Russ
Your friendship brightens mine. ♥
I’m sure you’re telling people close to you what they mean to you every day!
Diana xo
Hi, Diana. I attempt to do so every chance I get. Thank you for brightening my life.
Russ
what a great philosophy to live by Russ. 🙂
Thank you, Kristi. I appreciate your comment.
Russ
All of our heart’s desire.
May lasting joy be yours, Shian.
Rus