As I write this column, I’m mourning the loss of a friend and grieving with those who loved him. He was a generous person who loved life and his family, especially his wife. Like others who have touched my life, however briefly, his death reminds me how often we go through life not really embracing the unpredictable nature of our lives. We get caught up in the daily minutiae of work and school and raising kids and forget just how short our journey can be.
We don’t get out of this life alive–no matter how much we hope we can outlast the endgame. We take care of our bodies and our financial health so we can enjoy life and have those secure “golden years.” If you’re like me, you also try to maintain spiritual health for help getting through the day-to-day grind of life with an eye to eternity. We want to live life to the fullest, no matter how long we have on this earth.
It’s not really that hard to do.
First, cherish the present. In fact, live in that present moment. We may find ourselves stuck in the past or worried about the future, while life is happening in the here and now. The everyday moments and the grand milestones are equally important. Spend some time enjoying them.
Second, live with a passion for life and follow those passions. There’s a saying that if you love what you do, you will never work another day in your life. Pursue your dreams, no matter how old you are. Don’t wait until some nebulous day in the future to travel or start a new career or have an adventure. Living life to the fullest means not settling for mediocrity but striving for what truly makes your heart sing.
Third, live adventurously. This doesn’t mean rush off on an African safari or a cruise to Bali. Adventure awaits everywhere. Sometimes it can be as simple as trying something new in your daily routine. If you are a shy person, for example, adventurous living could be smiling and greeting a complete stranger in the bread aisle at Busch’s or chatting with someone new in the line at the post office or bank. Life is about seeking new experiences, after all. Step out of your comfort zone once in a while.
Fourth, connect with other people. Build relationships with each other. Volunteer for a cause. Be compassionate and empathetic. Reconnect with old friends and loved ones. Nurture your relationships and, most importantly, tell those you love just how much they mean to you. Hard Rock Cafe has a motto that I find particularly fitting–“Love All–Serve All.” Pretty simple.
Fifth, be kind. I’ve written about this in the past but I don’t think I can emphasize it enough. We are living in hateful and divisive times. It may seem overwhelming and we may feel helpless or we may be caught up in dislike for those who don’t agree with us on matters we deem important. Don’t give in to the temptation to continue trading insults and isolating yourself from other people. Reach out and exercise kindness. It’s really not so difficult.
Finally, practice gratitude. Take time each day to reflect on what and who you are thankful for and find the good in every situation. Remember those shopworn phrases, “Appreciate the little things” and “Count your blessings?” Still good advice.
Remember, we cannot change the hand we are dealt, but we can change the way we play the cards. Don’t waste time with worry or regret because tomorrow is never guaranteed.
Live for today.
SQUIBS 