When I finished my post-grad in April, I decided to make a summer book list (which has now become my 2012 list) – everything from Nicholas Sparks love stories to National Geographic news compilations. One thing I have always loved about life is that learning new things and people new people lead to new experiences, and it is these experiences that help us to grow.
A book I read this July was The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch. Words cannot describe how much of a positive impact this book had on me. “The Last Lecture” is simple in its concept:
If you had one last lecture to give before you die, what would it be?
So this got me thinking… what would I say, what would I do, and to whom would I speak if I knew they would be some of my very last words?! No matter where you are in life, it is important to remember that a healthy lifestyle goes far beyond hitting the gym and eating your fruits and veggies.
I can only hope for many more healthy years ahead – but for now, my last lecture would start with something like this: Be kind, work hard, and respect life as it is. Everyone is fighting their own battle – so be kind, and we always remember that whatever happens tomorrow, we have today – so live it to the fullest. I have spent too much time worrying about the ‘what ifs’ and could haves – the time is now, and it is the only time we are guaranteed.
A last lecture-type blog I love is Marc and Angel’s – one blog I highly recommend reading is Timeless Lessons from a Life Well Lived. The only thing we have in life for sure is today, and this moment. I highly recommend reading The Last Lecture, checking out Randy’s website, and watching his lecture. It really puts into perspective that we must focus on having life in our years versus just years in our lives.
Take some time to reflect on your lifestyle today. What would you say if you had one final lecture to give?
