Life Lessons
It’s been a difficult couple of weeks… I lost a beautiful friend quite suddenly to cancer. Amid the grief comes bittersweet joy for the person he was and the way he touched so many lives. He was a veteran, a musician, a sportsman, a father, a husband, and a friend to many. In talking to people who knew him, there were so many consistencies in our interactions with him - he was warm, generous, funny, frustrating at times and charming. Reflecting on his legacy, there are three things he has made me focus on…
Be present
He never hurried… unless he had to. When he was with someone he gave them his 100% attention. Young, old, engaging or boring, he gave everyone time with kindness. He took the time to really see people when he chatted with them, matching their energy and depth of conversation. He was always ready with a laugh but could also be totally connected when someone needed his strength. He did not judge others but admired their skills and encouraged others to try new things.
Be real
He was always unapologetic about being himself. Often highlighting the funny side of a situation and game for anything, if he disagreed he would stand up for what he believed in. We were rarely in the dark about how he felt. He was moved by people’s struggles and would stand beside someone when they needed support.
Be courageous
In life and in facing mortality, one of his favourite things to say was ‘Just do it! What’s the worst that could happen?’ He managed to live many lives in his and was ever-ready to try something new if it felt right for him.
The truth is, none of us know how short our life will be. Don’t risk not doing something because of the past or fear of the future. People talk about making a change as being ‘risky’ or ‘too big of a risk’ but we need to turn this on its head… what is the risk if you don’t give it a shot? If you miss someone, call them. If you love someone, tell them. If you want to go to Hawaii, start planning. If you want a different job, start understanding what it will take to get there.
Life’s lessons come in many forms but I urge you to be courageous, real and present. Show up authentically for yourself and others, and commit to being grateful for the life you have in front of you, however long that may be. Many others do not have the privilege of getting old…