Most of us brush past thoughts of our own mortality while we’re busy living life. I know I have—and still do. But I’ve also found a sense of empowerment in embracing the reality that life is finite.
What Would You Do With Two Years?
Several years ago, I came across an article called The Nun of Death that illuminated something for me: the idea that accepting our mortality can actually help us live more fully today. It wasn’t a new concept, but the way she said it landed. She asked us to imagine what we’d do if we really let in the fact that our time here is limited.
So I did.
I asked myself what I would do if I knew for sure I had only two years left to live—not two months, which might only allow time to say goodbye, and not ten years, which can feel too far off. Two years felt just close enough to be real, but long enough to still do something with.
I realized that my purpose would be to find a path where I could gather knowledge and insights to be as directly helpful to others as possible, for as long as possible. That question set me on the path to becoming a therapist.
It hasn’t been easy. The education and training alone took longer than the two years I imagined. But even if I hadn’t finished, I knew I’d still gain lessons I could share along the way. Now, well past that imaginary deadline, I feel deeply rewarded by my work with clients. That sense of purpose has also helped me show up more fully in every part of my life.
A Renewed Glimpse Into Mortality
More recently, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It wasn’t something I saw coming. As you might imagine, it gave me another stark reminder of mortality—and a renewed sense of clarity about what really matters to me.
Even as I went through treatment and recovery, I knew I was still on the right path. Despite the inevitable disruptions, I felt even more committed to showing up with others in honest, compassionate connection. I’m now cancer-free—and more devoted than ever to building meaningful relationships, both professionally and personally.
As has been said in poetry, song, and spiritual teachings across centuries, it is in the eyes of another that we see the face of the divine.
You Still Get to Choose
No matter your age, your past, or your current circumstance, you still have the power to choose how you show up in your life. Yes, sometimes you need to pull back and heal—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—before you can connect or reconnect. But that’s not failure. That’s being human.
This is where courage comes in:
- The courage to ask for help.
- The courage to accept it.
- The courage to examine the beliefs or patterns that might be holding you back.
And when you’re ready, connect. Connect with beauty, music, nature, art, movement, silence, and love. Because that’s where life is happening.
A Gentle Challenge
Let your own mortality serve as a reminder—not of fear, but of possibility. Use it to reflect on whether your daily choices align with your values and the life you truly want.
As F. Scott Fitzgerald once said:
“I hope you live a life you are proud of. If you find that you are not, I hope you have the courage to start… again.”
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure how to begin living more fully, you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy can be a space to explore your purpose, values, and next steps at your own pace. Get started with a therapist at Firefly Therapy Austin.