Some believe that one’s life flashes in front of the eyes, right before the person’s death. There may be no known scientific way to test and validate that claim, because there is no apparent return from that point. As such, there is no way to write about that experience, except using one’s imagination. Additionally, the life reviewed in those crucial moments cannot be documented, for obvious reasons. Hence, to share the narrative of the actions, events, and experiences in a person’s life, one must use the finite period of earthly existence to engage in the process of writing.
There may be some who wait until reaching a certain age or stage in life to write an autobiography. Doing so requires revisiting life’s significant moments, as well as insignificant ones, for the production of a meaningful manuscript.
However, recalling the events from one’s life, by scrolling past decades of memories, is a monumental task. Many perform it with strict dedication, while others may see that as a barrier to even starting such a project.
But there is a different way – one that requires strong discipline and patience. That is, the act of documenting one’s life on an ongoing basis. Those who choose this option are clearly planning ahead, recognizing the possibility that an autobiography may be forthcoming. As such, they must demonstrate firm commitment to the continuity of a journal or diary to document life’s events as they unfold, plans as they are made, actions as they are performed, milestones as they are reached, and lessons as they are learned.
A journal or diary, when properly maintained, not only records the writer’s journey through life, but also the evolution of a person’s maturity and viewpoints.
Whatever the choice may be, the most important factors are the desire to write, the plan to write about one’s life, and the actual process of writing.
To live and to look forward to the future, a part of our self must always look back into the past. The past grows perpetually, absorbing the present. We must accept and learn from the past, as we head into the future.
Each life has a story, one that presumably flashes before our eyes during the sunset of our existence. Why not write about our lives, while we still have time? Sharing the lessons and wisdom from our experiences may allow us to make contributions towards the betterment of humanity.