A story about a 90% survival rate and the motto Carpe Diem
Last year, I heard from someone I met about a serious illness they had in the past.
They are very healthy now, with no lingering effects, and even do manual labor, so it was a diagnosis I never would have imagined if I hadn't been told.
At the time of the surgery, the doctor apparently told them,
"If nothing happens in the next 10 years, your survival rate until age ◯ is 90%."
Ten years have passed, and now they are at that 90% survival rate the doctor spoke of.
When I asked if anything changed after experiencing such a serious illness, they said,
"I thought my mindset might change, but nothing changed at all.
Anyone could die at any time from anything."
--For everyone, it is the same.
I, too, could die at any time from anything.
I cannot say for certain that I won't encounter a sudden disaster or accident.
In a sense,
I am also at a 90% survival rate.
Recently, I learned the phrase Carpe diem.
"Enjoy this moment, and live for the present."
Instead of regretting the past that is no longer before us or worrying about the future, we should cherish this very moment.
With a 90% survival rate, I will cherish this moment and live joyfully.
My motto for 2026.
To Lisa on December 31, 2026
Another year has flown by, hasn't it?
Thank you for focusing only on the things, people, and activities you love this past year.
Thank you for spending your days surrounded by the people and things you love, for keeping your camera roll filled with them, and for not letting yourself get overwhelmed by the need to play roles imposed by society or the world, or letting yourself be pushed too far by people or situations beyond your control.
Thank you for valuing the act of living each and every moment as your true self.