If we knew we had only a few years or months left until the end, we'd make bold changes in our lives.
Weight
I'd change my diet! As someone prone to gaining weight—and who’s been dieting for as long as I can remember—I’d say: I’d indulge. Calories and health wouldn’t matter anymore. I’d have burgers for breakfast, pizza for lunch, pasta for dinner, and even eat bread with bread. Every meal would end with a mountain of sweets, I’d snack on chocolate between courses, and fall asleep spooning ice cream at night. Not the most philosophical goal, but hey, that’s how it is.
Confession
I’d reactivate my Facebook profile and tell Laura I still love her. Laura was my high school sweetheart—real teenage love that ended when we both went abroad for college. We met once more at a concert when we were 27, and though I’ve had many relationships since, I never got her out of my head. Right now, I’m single and don’t know anything about her, but reaching out to her would be the most important thing in my life. Honestly, thinking about it now, I don’t know why I haven’t done it yet… I’m about to reactivate that profile.
Taking a Stand
I definitely wouldn’t wait around for death with my hands folded. I’d walk into work, tell my boss he’s a clueless jerk, and quit. I’d visit my sister’s place and give my useless brother-in-law a piece of my mind. I’d drive 175 mph (280 km/h) on the highway, tell my mom I love her, then after a wild night, I’d face things head-on and take control of how it all ends.
Peace
I’d make peace with my brother. We had a falling out four years ago at a Christmas gathering (classic), and haven’t spoken since. We argued over who does more for our aging parents—each convinced we do more—and he said something that upset me so much I snapped back with something that hurt him deeply. From there, old wounds surfaced, and we threw ugly words at each other that left no way back. The funny thing is, I can’t even remember what was said, just how hurt I felt—and I know I hurt him too. I wouldn’t call him now, but if I knew my days were numbered, I definitely wouldn’t want to leave things unresolved.
The Money
I’d take out a hefty loan and spend it on women. I’ve never been handsome, so I never had a beautiful girlfriend—this would be my chance to try.
Transparency
Can I be completely honest? I’d grab the kids, put them in the car, drop them off at my ex-husband’s, and head straight to the airport. I’d buy a ticket to Madeira and not look back. When I was young, I loved hiking and climbing—I felt alive only in nature. Then I fell in love with my husband, had a child quickly, then another at his urging. They were still little when he left me for a pretty climber girl. Since then, my life has revolved around the kids and survival. I imagine my ex’s surprised face when I tell him, “I’ve been taking care of them for eight years; now it’s your turn. Goodbye.” And then I’d walk away.
Flying High
I’d try every drug out there. I’ve always been curious about what it feels like but never had the courage to try any. If it didn’t matter because I’m dying anyway, I’d try a little heroin just to see if it really is as heavenly as they say.
Burning Bridges
I’d call all my relatives and tell them exactly what I think—basically, I’d roast them. Then I’d withdraw all my money from the bank, rent a house by a lake, and spend my remaining days fishing and drinking with my friends.
Will
I’d get everything in order so there’s no chaos after I’m gone. I’d write a detailed will no one could contest. I’d sort through, sell, and toss all my unnecessary stuff so my family wouldn’t have to deal with it. I’d leave a generous sum to my best friend and ask her to take care of my beloved cat.
Goodbye, Darling!
I’d divorce my husband immediately. I’ve been with this man for twenty years; the first two were good, the next two were nothing special, and the last sixteen have been miserable. I don’t want this unbearable pain in my life to ruin my final years.
