Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Last Lecture...


We just finished reading The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch in my little book club. It was a good read, super quick, and VERY thought provoking. If you haven't read it or heard about it, it is about Randy's last lecture in life. He was diagnosed with cancer and only given a short time to live. As a professor at Carnegie Mellon, he prepared his 'last lecture' for his students and delivered his life's lessons on stage. Interesting. It has me thinking about what I would say if I were given the same opportunity. How do you sum up a life and all that you think is important in such a short time? What would I say for my children? How would I ever convey my love to Mac? What would I want to be my legacy?
I guess that it is on my mind a lot lately, especially because we have lost family and friends in the recent months and years. They left such a footprint and mark in our lives...Will I do the same?
SO it is my goal to become more focused on the things that matter most...to make note of those important lessons learned and life changing moments. I feel like the last year has been a powerful one. One that has too many lessons learned to count! I am trying hard to recognize what I am supposed to learn and walk away from things bigger and better for it. I will try harder to reach out to the people I love and lose myself in serving others. I will be a better mom and wife, sister and daughter -- for sure not perfect, but the people around me will know how much they mean to me...I am going to start posting my last lecture. A bit self indulgent I am sure, but since this is my only current journal of sorts - you all have to come along for the ride.

8 comments:

Lisanne Lee said...

I love you skippy.

Lisanne Lee said...

I love you skippy. You have left your mark. All those who know and love you could never imagine life without you.

You are a hero to me in many ways.

Erin said...

Hey Steph,
I have been thinking a lot about you lately and I am glad to hear from you. We need to get together sometime. We have a lot of catching up to do. Layla was born on Oct. 21, 2009 so we should start arranging the marriage right now (if cruz doesn't mind an older woman). I miss you!
Erin Nielsen

Mike, Torie and Boys said...

Steph, I will have to read that book. I don't read as much as I should.

I loved looking at your blog. Your kids are beautiful. I am glad I ran into you the other day. You look wonderful and we will forsure have to get together. I would love it. My email is tjc0220@hotmail.com
Let me know when is good day for you...

Sarah said...

Ride on!! Ty read this book awhile back (he's such a better reader than me!) and loved it. What a cool thing to leave your mark. It's funny how some days seem to drag but how fast life flies by. We really do need to cherish each day, make the most of it, & be better. Thanks for sharing!

Ash said...

Steph what a neat book. It really makes you think of what an impact you would be huh. I think about this often. What would people say if I passed on. I am always wanting to do better and be so aware of others, so that you could be remembered by something special like service. Thanks for touching me with your thoughts. Jade totally comes home talking about Cole sometimes. It's cute.

Crystal said...

Hey Steph, How are you? Your Baby Cruz does look like you! He is adorable! We are going to read this book for our little book club in June, I've heard its great and super inspiring! Your allready a great and amazing person, just keep it up;) Loves

Broadbent Family said...

Thanks for this post. You are so sweet and are always focusing on people around you, making everyone feel so special. You are so amazing. Love you.