A Terminal Illness Sparks a Profound Reflection

A 24-year-old man known by the pen name mylasttie left behind one of the most powerful letters we've seen online. Whether it's a real account or not, it undoubtedly holds messages each of us should take to heart and apply to our lives.

"Soon, I'll disappear forever, but that's okay as long as someone reads this," the young man writes. "I'm only 24, yet I've already chosen my last tie—the one I'll wear at my funeral in a few months. It might not match my suit, but I think it'll be perfect for the occasion.

"The cancer diagnosis came too late to even give me a sliver of hope for a long life—but I've come to understand that the most important part of death is ensuring you leave this world a bit better than it was before you existed.

"How I've lived my life so far, my existence—or rather the end of it—doesn't matter. Because up until now, I lived without making a genuine impact. There were so many things that occupied my mind, but when I finally realized how little time I had left, it became clear what truly matters. So, I'm writing this letter for you out of selfishness, because I want to give my life, or what's left of it, meaning. Maybe then I'll feel like I've been 'useful' and that my life wasn't in vain."

At this point, the young man begins to share insights about life as he's lived it and how it shouldn't be lived. "Don't waste your time on work you don't enjoy because it's obvious you won't succeed at something you dislike. Patience, passion, and dedication come easily when you do something you love.

"Too often, we're afraid of others' opinions, but that's foolish because fear weakens and paralyzes us. The more we let it 'bite,' the more it spreads and grows until there's nothing left of us but a 'shell' of ourselves. Listen to your inner voice and follow it. Some might call you 'crazy,' but many will think you're simply a living legend."

"Let Your Life Be Shaped by Your Decisions"

At this stage, he addresses his readers and pleads: "Take control of your life, and accept full responsibility for what happens to you. Limit bad habits and try living a healthier life. Find a type of sport you can enjoy, because it makes us happy.

"And more than anything—don't procrastinate. Let your life be shaped by your decisions, not those made for you by others. Cherish the people around you, your friends and family who provide an endless source of strength and love, and never take them for granted.

"I find it hard to fully express my feelings about the importance of realizing these simple things. I only hope you listen to someone who learned firsthand how precious time is. Now that I've shared these thoughts, I'm no longer angry. I understand that my final days have become meaningful, and I'm merely sorry that I won't get to witness many cool things about to happen around me and the world.

"Whatever Your Definition—Leave a Mark on This World. Have Truly Meaningful Lives"

"It's important to care for your body's well-being, but even more vital to understand that the body is just a container—a package that provides us with personality, thoughts, beliefs, intentions, and skills to navigate this world. If there's nothing in this package that can change the world, then it doesn't matter if it disappears. I believe we all have potential, but it takes a lot of courage to recognize it and do something with it.

"You can continue to drift through life, shaped by its circumstances, day by day, hour by hour. Or, you can make a definitive decision and begin fighting for what you believe in. I hope you make the right choice and succeed in writing the grand and wonderful story of your life.

Whatever your definition—leave a mark on this world. Have meaningful lives. The place we leave is a beautiful playground where anything is possible, yet we aren't here forever. Our lives are a brief spark on this small, beautiful planet, flowing at an incredible pace into the unknown. So do what interests you, enjoy, and make this journey meaningful."