Yesterday My Brother Died

4/22/2012

My 54 year-old brother collapsed and died at the gym as he was working out with his wife. Now the shock is turning to sorrow and contemplation.

Today I find myself questioning my own mortality. I have heard many people say that ‘Life is short’ and that is true. What I am thinking about today though is how suddenly life can end. Death has no regard for your plans, your future, your dreams and goals!

Do we have a predetermined amount of time on this earth?

Is our final times written in some book somewhere?

In Greek mythology Atropos or Aisa was the oldest of the Three Fates, and was known as the "inflexible" or "inevitable." It was Atropos who chose the mechanism of death and ended the life of each mortal by cutting their thread with her "abhorred shears." She worked along with her two sisters, Clotho, who spun the thread, and Lachesis, who measured the length.

For me my brother’s death – he was just a year younger than me – creates massive urgency in my mind to get more done, get more accomplished and fill my life with more memorable moments.

Not sure if I can live every day like it is my last but I am contemplating the concept.

5 Comments

Ali R. Rodriguez link

4/22/2012 04:09:50 am

I am deeply sorry for your sudden loss, Allen.

I know you want to do more....however, sometimes doing less is doing more. And doing less of more quality, effectiveness, and meaning to the world, you are fulfilling your own destiny. If anything this is the time to be "slow and deliberate" about the things you want to accomplish, and the people you want to help....starting with yourself first.

My prayers to your and your family.

Ali

Christine Chester

4/22/2012 07:25:58 am

All you need it love. Memories that last are memories of love. The only thing that transitions from this life into the next is relationship. Everything else, our bodies, wealth, accomplishments, failures and successes fades away. What lasts is love. The loss of your brother is significant because of love. People die suddenly every day, but this death is shocking, deep and painful because of love. Because a relationship is cut short, because your experience no longer includes his active participation - there is a void, a massive gap that can only be filled with love.
So YES, live every day as if it is your last, but don't forget that love is what matters.
You are an honest man, creative, hard-working, loyal, brilliant, well known, respected, admired - an adventurer! But what is most enduring about you is love. Kindness to the barista at Starbucks, honesty in your work, forgiveness in your relationships, steadfastness in your loyalty.
If you do anything today - give and receive love. Joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control - it all starts with love.
I pray for abundant love in your life, Allan. I believe that you will see your brother again, and you will have eternity to revel in infinite love. Love you, dear friend.

Tabitha

4/23/2012 05:34:13 am

So sorry to hear your sad news Allan! May you have strength at this challenging time. Much Love and Blessings.

EVEREST DSOUZA

4/23/2012 10:51:08 am

Hello Allan,
Sorry to hear of your Loss. Please convey my sorrow to your family.

We had a tragedy in toronto as well. Do you remember the Pinto's Doreen, Loretta, Leslie, Rony, Tony and Rudy. Tony died on monday. He was only 67. They lived near the Perpetual Help Centre.
I am sure you will remember them.
Anyway, God Bless you and your entire family,
Everest

Thelma Lewis

4/24/2012 09:18:11 am

Allan
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your dear brother, I fully understand what you and the family are going thru. Will pray for all of you and Christopher.
Regards
Thelma