I really like the idea of life for life itself. Reminds me of Mr. Peanutbutter's meaning of life - "The universe is a cruel and uncaring void. The secret to happiness is not to search for meaning. It is to keep yourself busy with unimportant nonsense and eventually you will be dead".

As to Michaela, I think it is extremely painful to watch someone incapable of participating in life than someone dying. So when interest returned to her life, it was clear that there was more life in store for her.