Fatalism, Realism, and You

Recurring theme lately: Things you want to do before it's too late for one reason or another.

For example: while watching Disney's Brother Bear movie, it occurs to me I have never seen the Northern Lights (which feature prominently in the film's storyline). During all those solar storms a couple of weeks ago, it was mentioned that people as far south as Georgia might see them, but living in Florida, it's not particularly likely I'll do so from my back patio.

As another example, I've never really been off the continent. I've visited my share of Caribbean isles, and been to Canada, but have never traveled anywhere requiring a passport. People often tell me I should visit Europe "at least once in your lifetime."

Last example: I used to be one of those who would schedule a trip to see a Disney show or attraction "one last time" before it closed.

Note that I say, "used to." Lately I've been of the mind that it doesn't matter if I do these things "one last time," or even at all. I keep coming up against the thought, "what difference does it make?" Once I die, it's not going to matter one whit to me, nor to anyone else on the planet, I imagine, whether I made it to see a remote castle in Bavaria, or saw the now-extinct version of Disney's long-standing Magic Kingdom fireworks show. I've been operating of the mind that you do what you do, you enjoy what you can for the moment, but don't use "before I die" as a reason.

Positive thoughts for a Wednesday, huh?