Ben Milstead

I have a great friend, Mike, that was recently diagnosed with a stage four Glioblastoma brain tumor.  Surgery to remove the tumor was unsuccessful and Chemo and Radiation have begun.  Mike knows that the prognosis is not good.

I’m helping with a benefit that will raise money to assist with Mike’s medical costs.  One of our friends ask him if there was anything specific that he would like to see take place at the event.  His response has sent me for a loop.  Mike would like one of the bands to sing Tim McGraw’s song “Live Like You Were Dying.”  My immediate thought was no way.    That was yesterday. 

I had a hard time sleeping last night.  At 4:00, after struggling to sleep all night long, I got up and listened to that song.  I know the song well as I’ve heard it 100 times.  But it was different last night because it is now personal to someone I love.  So today I say that song should absolutely be played.

If someone told you that you were going to die what would you start doing differently?  Would you try to do all the things you’ve always wanted to do?  Would hugging your kids or spouse mean more to you?  Would you be too tired to spend time with those you love?  Would sitting down for a quiet meal with your family take on a different meaning?  Would you make amends with those you’ve wronged?  Would the quietness of the morning or the blueness of the sky mean more?   Would you make certain that things are right between you and God?

Here is the big revelation I’ve had over the last couple of weeks.  Ready for this?  I’m going to die!  You are going to die!  Of course I don’t know if it’s going to be this week, this year, or 20 years from now, but I do know it IS going to happen.  So why aren’t we living like we know it’s going to end at some point?

Mike is going to be fine one way or the other.  He loves life and he isn’t going to let cancer ruin his attitude on life.  He will continue to love, continue to remain positive, and continue to live life to the absolute fullest.  I hope I can do the same.