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On July 25, 2008 Randy Pausch lost his battle with pancreatic cancer. His famous “last lecture” entitled ‘Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams’ at Carnegie Mellon, became a national bestseller. When I read his story, I was at the bookstore and could not put it down. Tears streamed down my face, touched by his inspiration, dedication and humor. From Randy's talk and words, we have been inspired to dream a little more, worry a little less.
My birthday is coming up soon- another year passes (although unknowingly I have claimed to be the same age two years in a row), and I began to think- What lessons have I learned in my life, so far? What lessons are there waiting to be discovered?
- The healing power of laughter.
Laugh more. It’s okay to laugh at yourself. Not every situation has to be so serious. My husband has brought laughter in my life, and for that, I am forever grateful.
- Don’t give up on your Dreams.
I wanted to be a writer since I could form letters with a number two pencil writing on big block handwriting paper. For a while, I had gotten lost, buried under the “You can’t do that!” recording that played in my head. Yet, writing is what I come back to time and time again. It is the place where I can dream, tell and share stories.
- The small stuff is just small stuff.
This is a hard one for me; I learn it over and over again. Learning to let the small stresses go provides the opportunity to be present in the moment, enjoy life more and appreciate the many blessings around us. We have a choice to pick up the small stressors and carry them with us or just notice them along the path. Passing them by.
- The Importance of Family
Family goes beyond bloodlines and whether we like it or not, family is really important. It is important to know who we are and where we came from. Yet, there is also a point where seeking approval from my parents, mentors and teachers tripped me up. Letting go of what others think has been hard, yet it’s been an important part of claiming my own mission in life.
- Love. Trust. Patience.
Love is the thread that connects us all. Patience with myself more than with others. Trust that I will be where I am needed when I am needed. Taking every opportunity to serve my family, others and God.
There are more, many more, but I will end here. What would be the title of your last lecture? How would you tell the story of your life? What stories, people, events have played the most significance in shaping who you are? What do you want your children to remember? |
