Do Whims Have Expiration Dates?

Following a series of health crises from the end of 2011 to 2014, I survived the loss of friendships, endured a debilitating depression and struggled with finances. I constantly focused on dying which until then had seemed a long way off. My illnesses brought into focus a consideration of death sooner than I expected; What would happen to my estate such as it was? Who would I ask to take care of financial and medical decisions for me? Who would step up to take care of me if I needed help? Procrastination was out of the question. I had to make decisions. I wasn’t, and am not, going to leave loved ones with a huge mess. I’ve witnessed the consequences of avoiding the topic until its too late.
 

I’ve a Last Will and Testament in place, created a trust, made my specific wishes known in documents; designated powers of attorney, beneficiaries and inheritants. As there is no spouse or children, I’ve declared how valuable works of art, family heirlooms and antiques in my possession are to be distributed upon my death. I’ve done everything I know to do to not inconvenience my loved ones. I have created a detailed “When I’m Gone" Book for my brother and sister.

 After surviving more than a year of the Covid pandemic, it’s occurred to me I haven’t given a lot of thought and attention to what it means to be living. Exactly what do I want to accomplish with the time I have left? Just who do I want to spend time with as I age past my mid-60’s? I refuse to be invisble; I refuse to settle; I refuse to stop setting goals.

 I live in a 62+ community in Minneapolis, MN. Sifting through the rancid dust of 2020, I feel like a move away from a noisy, volatile urban setting is in my future. I love my neighbors and the comforts of my current building, but a reality I didn’t count on has changed my perspective. I am healthier now than at any point in years ... I don’t want to think about death. I want to think about living instead. What can I dream into being?

 I am considering a move away from Minnesota to be near my long time besties, looking to enjoy a more moderate climate, seeking a more affordable, tax friendly area of the country for retirees. The possibiity of having a house again with a fenced-in yard, room for guests, space for a companion for Bella and still being able to cut living expenses in half, is really appealing right now. I’ve done enough research to know this is possible. So, I’m planning ... and planning ... Plus, I really want to be able to spend a lot of time traveling overseas.

 I’m not going to dash away from Minnesota soon. There are a lot of good, kind, caring people in my life here. What I hope to do will take some time to put in place. My truth is ... a decade in Minnesota will come to an end, hopefully before I do. I feel big change coming on. I moved to Minnesota on a whim. Here’s an odd thought. Who knew whims have an expiration date?

 So, a statement and question to all who read this ... Death is inevitable. What does “living” mean to you?