I realize this may come off rather corny, but it is me. While driving the other day I was listening to the radio, and the Tim McGraw song, “Live Like You Were Dying” came on. Not exactly sure why, but that day it hit me like the proverbial ton of bricks, smack in the middle of my forehead; as I listened to the words I started to tear up. The words are simple; it’s about a man hearing that his father is dying of an unspecified life threatening illness. His father’s message is to live life to the fullest and do things that “HE” had always wanted to do. The song goes on to mention “sky-diving, mountain climbing, fishing and bull riding.” Remember it was a country station. I encourage you to fill-in the voids and “what ifs” of your life into the song.
I’m pretty sure this song hit me so strong because I was headed to see my grandson and my head was filled with wanting to live a rich life for little Levi. Being around to nurture and share my experiences to help him be the man he wants to be. As a leukemia survivor, perhaps I’m a little closer and definitely more sensitive to leaving this world before my job is complete.
Most of the people that know me would characterize me as a ‘type A’ personality with passion, tenacity and a drive to succeed. I’d agree with that characterization, because that’s me. Career experiences, living in many different states and cities, health and life has allowed me the perspective that few have, especially as they’re living, pursuing their dreams. Without trying to sound like a blowhard or know it all; I’m convinced my experiences are worth learning from, I know I have.
Too often we’re speeding through life as if our very existence depended on how fast we go through it. If I could have a do-over I’d do it similarly, but I’d try harder to enjoy the ride, continue to pull people higher and metaphorically smell the roses. I’d live audaciously, every day and share more openly, asking for and gaining more clarity in everything.
Erasmus said it best, “Fortune favors the audacious”
Ronald Reagan was a great American, doing many different and varied professions during his life. Every one of them audacious and built to the perfect crescendo of being elected in a landslide to the Presidency of the United States. President Reagan had it right when he said, “Entrepreneurs and their small enterprises are responsible for almost all economic growth in the United States.” Today we’re able to reflect on the likes of Google, Microsoft, Apple and their amazing success. They all started as small businesses, as a dream of an entrepreneur. No different than GE, Chevron, or P&G. They all started small, with a vision and a product. Success always goes to those willing to act audaciously everyday.
I close today with a thought from Albert Einstein, “there are two ways to live your life; one is as though there are no miracles. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Standing in awe of what is, makes us humble and knowledgeable there is something bigger than us. Miracles surround every facet of our lives, do you see them? When you rise tomorrow morning, before your feet hit the floor, think about what if? What is? And what could be?
Faith, Hope, Love and Laugh are the foundation of life. Living in an audacious way and as if you were dying, makes for a life of abundance and fun. Get out there and make it an awesome day, live like it’s on purpose. I guarantee you’ll feel better and generate better results in all you do. Laugh more, live a lot, give back, repeat.
