A Thought Provoking Question
Just a few weeks ago, I recommended two similarly themed yet very different books that truly inspired me. I was pleasantly surprised to learn many of you were intrigued by what I wrote and promptly ordered copies for yourselves! No, this isn’t turning into John’s Book Club, but I can’t stop talking about a book a friend recommended that I started reading this week. I’m less than halfway into it, and I’m already asking people in my life a thought-provoking question the book raises!
The book is The Measure by Nikki Erlick, and its premise stirs up as many feelings as it does questions. One spring morning, every single person on Earth over the age of 22 wakes up to find a small wooden box with their name on it. Carved into each box are the words: The measure of your life lies within. Inside each one rests a piece of string—some short, some long. It soon becomes evident to everyone around the world that the length of the string represents the length of that person’s life.
Some people open their box immediately, not thinking through the consequences of their decision. Some delay the decision, waiting for more information about the boxes to be revealed. Others tuck it away or toss it in the garbage, choosing not to burden themselves with the knowledge.
The author beautifully crafts the story through the eyes and experiences of eight very different characters. Some open their box and some don’t. Some are relieved to find a long string while others are shocked to find a short one. As a reader, you’re invited into their hearts and minds as they wrestle with their choices and the ripple effects that follow.
I don’t know how the story ends yet, but I’m captivated by the way it explores our shared humanity: our fears, our hopes, and the choices we make when confronted with our own mortality. The author has already presented a plethora of moral and ethical questions. I can’t wait to see where she takes us next and how she wraps it up!
So here’s the question I’ve been asking myself and others: What would you do? Would you look inside? Would you want to know the length of your string—or that of a loved one? Or would you prefer to live in the mystery?
We had a wonderful discussion about this in our online A Course in Miracles study group earlier this week. Each answer was fascinating, not just for the choice itself, but for the reasons behind it. Some said knowing would give them clarity and purpose. Others said they’d rather not live with the pressure of a countdown. I find this to be a fascinating question because it evokes deep, thoughtful reflections.
Honestly, I’m not sure what I’d do. I can see compelling reasons for both choices. But in each conversation I’ve had around this question, it seems to boil down to the same point. Since we don’t have boxes with strings, and we don’t know how much time we have left, are you living a life that feels authentically you right now? Are there things you would change?
If your answer is “not quite” or “yes, there are some things I’d change, but I’m not sure how,” I’d be honored to explore that with you through Spiritual Coaching or a private Family Constellations Session. So often we’re unconsciously carrying burdens that aren’t ours—patterns or pain from our ancestors that secretly keep us from the joy, love, and freedom we’re meant to experience. Once revealed, these hidden ties can be released, opening space for a new way of living. After 12 years of facilitating Family Constellations, I’m still amazed by the healing that unfolds during these sessions!
If you have questions about working together or you’d like to schedule a session, please explore my website or send me an email. I’d love to help you find clarity!
Until next time, I invite you to sit with the question. Ask it of your family, your friends, your book club. The conversation will no doubt take you to some interesting places. And may you spend your days—however many there are—surrounded by people you love and engaging in activities that bring you great joy!
Be not content with future happiness.
A Course in Miracles ~ T-26.VIII.9:1