As is likely the case with many other seniors, I often consider (but
don't dwell on) my mortality. I know that there's a chance that I could
live into my 90's as did my maternal grandfather. But the odds that will happen
are slim, and of course there's the matter of possible / probable
deterioration in the quality of life itself, as my physical and mental
health may fail even if I remain ''alive''. That's the real world.
But most other elderly people whom I know are theists and are convinced that
when they die, they will go to heaven and be with God and their loved
ones for eternity. How sad that they can achieve peace of mind only from
illusions like this.
I have to admit that it's a bit daunting
to contemplate the probable reality that the life we're now living is
the only one we'll ever have and that when we die, it's lights out
forever. Yet, it's that same likelihood of complete ''finis'' that makes
me realize that the good things that I have here and now should be
appreciated and enjoyed.while I'm still able to do so.
This post originally appeared as a comment in response to the Dec. 26, 2018 "Atheist Revolution" blog post "Welcome to the Real World''.
