I included the words in the title of this blog in my father’s eulogy. I remembered those words from a 1982 movie, The Blade Runner. Rutger Hauer played the part of replicant, Roy Batty. During the last scene, as Roy was dying, he talked about all those memories that he had over his life – they would be lost like tears in the rain upon his death.
We all have memories. Some we don’t want to remember and others bring tears and smiles to our faces. As Christmas season progresses, I’ve been involved in some clean-up activities around the house. I am sorting and come across things I haven’t seen for years (or decades). Yes, I am a bit of a hoarder. I find it very difficult to throw things away that have some sentimental or historical value.
As I’m looking at the various items that pass through my hands I become aware of the smile on my face. It wasn’t planned, it just happened. The good memories causing my body to respond.
We also create memories in others – some good and some bad. Our legacy is mostly memories. We will all be passing from this earth and those memories that others hold of us is all that is left that didn’t get rained out at our funerals.
I want to leave my legacy of healthy living to my heirs. It is not difficult, but it is something that requires daily attention. I had my annual physical this morning. Last year, every single parameter of my medical exam was within normal limits. I didn’t fare as well this year. I had two or three line items that didn’t fall within the acceptable limits.
Yes, there have been some things I’ve been doing of late that isn’t as healthy as they should be, but they are temporary. We all need to strive to know what is acceptable for good health and stay on that course as long and as often as possible. We can create great memories for our kids, grandkids, great-grandkids and maybe even see our great-great-grandkids before we leave this world. Start now before 2017 begins to align your daily activities with those that will make you healthier and happier.