Yesterday was my birthday. I am pleased to have made it this far in life. I have always attempted to manage my expectations of longevity. In my early years, I found myself tracking my progress by how many years I had left to 41, the age my father died of a heart attack. I was 17 and a senior in high school. I still keep track this way.
With knee surgery looming, I cannot escape some thoughts of my mortality. My doctor has described the risks of surgery and anesthesia. In my hospital pre-op paperwork, I was asked about a will, a power of attorney, and a living will, all of which I have. Sure it can happen but I am not really worried.
There is an old saying, "There are no atheists in a foxhole". Having not faced imminent death myself, I cannot say for certain how my mind and emotions will face my demise. I do not believe in heaven or hell nor the existence of a personal god. A deathbed conversion is highly unlikely for me.
