photo credit: margolove
“When I look upon the tombs of the great, every emotion of envy dies in me; when I read the epitaphs of the beautiful, every inordinate desire goes out; when I meet with the grief of parents upon a tombstone, my heart melts with compassion; when I see the tombs of the parents themselves, I consider the vanity of grieving for those whom we must quickly follow; when I see kings lying by those who deposed them, when I consider rival wits placed side by side, or the men that divided the world with their contests and disputes, I reflect with sorrow and astonishment on the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind. When I read the several dates of the tombs, of some that died yesterday, and some six hundred years ago, I consider that great Day when we shall all of us be contemporaries, and make our appearance together” ~ Joseph Addison
Lance,
From a Sunday thought to a Sunday thought. You have been busy this week. I am not religious, but that doesn’t stop me from thinking about death and wonder what my epitaph should read. So I try to live the best life I can so that I don’t have to worry about that. And I do believe that there is some connection of the soul in the afterlife.
Enjoy your week.
Mimi
Mindful Mimi´s last blog post..The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings — Eric Hoffer
It’s true, sometimes to ponder the goodness in life we have to examine the humbling wisdom that death provides.
(But remember to always live with joy)
Miguel de Luis´s last blog post..The Writer’s Report: Emotions
Oooh, this is too heavy for an early Sunday morning thought but when I die, I could only hope that I be buried in people’s hearts.
“Death is the unavoidable reminder to live fully in preparation of her.” ~Henie~
Henie´s last blog post..Gary Vaynerchuk Will Love These Photos!
ooooh deep thoughts this morning (which I like). I love the tying together/weaving together of the words sorrow and astonishment.
Miz´s last blog post..ChickDowntown.com giveaway.
Wow, VERY deep thought. One of the things in London I find overwhelming is how much history lies beneath the city. It seems like everywhere you go, there are old cemeteries, and buildings erected over ancient burial sites. Layer upon layer of death, and at the surface, life! (Though some would argue that many Londoners are among the living dead — if you’ve seen “Shaun of the Dead” you might see the humor in this!) Still, when I think about how many have come before me, it puts me in my place. Anger becomes meaningless. And it’s true — we’re all in this together. It’s why I love looking at the stars, and gazing at the ocean. It’s a great big universe, and we’re all part of the cycle of death and rebirth. It doesn’t take religion or belief in the afterlife to appreciate the majesty of it all.
Monica Shaw´s last blog post..How to Get Fit and Save Money
Wow, this one is heavy. But it is something that crosses my mind often and quite frankly frightens me. Mostly because I want to make sure I don’t “waste” my life.
Stacey Shipman´s last blog post..Staying Fit While You Travel
“I consider the vanity of grieving for those whom we must quickly follow” Life is so short. Since having my son I pray every night to be able to be around to watch him marry and have children and be happy. My parents have long since gone over 10 years, hard to believe. So short, so fleeting and if were lucky, before we go, so fulfilling!
Natalia Burleson´s last blog post..Monsters vs Aliens
@Mimi — Yes, it has been a busy week. Everything is back to normal now, though. Thinking about what our epitaph might read — I find this hard to think about. And it’s probably because it brings the thought of death. It is good, though, to think about this — it puts into perspective what’s important. Living our best life — and really listening to what we’re telling ourselves on how to live that best life — are so important to having a life we’re that matters…
@Miguel — The finality of death, or at least finality as we know it today — when we really think about this — helps to put it all into perspective on what really matters.
@Henie — Being buried in people’s hearts — what a great thought! That really says to me that if we can do that, if we can make a difference in someone’s life — and remain in their hearts — our life has been a success.
@Miz — The whole part about sorrow and astonishment was what jumped out for me, as well. How we sometimes (often?) let little things become much bigger than they should be — and for what?
@Monica Shaw — I haven’t seen “Shaun of the Dead”, and now I’m curious! Our time here on earth, really, is short. Many have come and went. Your thought of life upon layers of death beneath us — this thought is so interesting to me. Here we are, walking on this earth, while beneath us lie those have went before us — all the famous, all the poor, everyone. It doesn’t matter your status or who you are — in the end, our life as we know it here on earth will end. What are we doing to make the most of it while we’re here? And — looking at the stars — I’m right there with you on that one — our universe is amazing and beyond what we can fully comprehend…
@Stacey Shipman — Oh, this is it! What are we doing with our lives — the one life we know we have? I find this all very difficult to think about — and it’s because it all seems so final. Thinking about it today — is reminding me that this is it. This is what I have — this moment. If it were to end today, what would I want? Would I have done anything differently? Whew…
@Natalia — Yes, life is short. Children certainly can have a way of changing how we think about life — as we want to see them grow to have long and meaningful lives. Having lost your parents, I’m sure this has even more meaning for you Natalia. Having a life that is fulfilling, deeply — this is what makes life meaningful.
I love your quotes your photographs and all you share.
Blessings
Jeanne´s last blog post..My Son In New Zealand More Adventures
There is only one sure thing about life: death is a guarantee. I am wondering how many of us prepare ourselves mentally and spiritually for the day that will come. I hope I don’t sound too morbid. In a Tibetian book I read some years ago, preparation for a peaceful crossover is key!
Evelyn Lim´s last blog post..Akashic Records Reveal DreamMaster
Whoa. This quote is totally satisfying.
From the alone to the alone we travel, all equal, all presdestined to pass over to a new reality.
So we much shine our lights as much as we can while we’re here and love ferociously to leave this world better than we found it. And you do that, Lance! You shine in the way you move, inspire and enlighten so many of us. Thank you, Buddy!
Jannie Funster´s last blog post..Ukulele Video
Lance, I love this quote. It comforts me immensely. It shows we are all in the same place—people living life.
I like how Addison easily dismisses vanity, greed, envy, and all manner of other unsuitable emotions and shows that the others such as compassion are the ones that break down the walls we have erected between us (with vanity, greed, envy, and the rest). He speaks of “…that great Day when we shall all of us be contemporaries…”; well I believe we can achieve that here, now, and that’s what people like Robin and Evita speak to in their writings.
Thoughts of death or dying aren’t scary to me; they just emphasize (thank goodness!) the brevity of life, and that we should put more effort into unshackling ourselves from pointless thinking and being and dwell only on the best that we can achieve. It’s quotes such as this one that help move us forward. They aren’t just “feel good” quotes; they serve an incredible, lovely purpose: to elevate us beyond our current state of thinking.
Thank you for sharing this one, which is so very perfect for a Sunday—and every day!
Julie´s last blog post..Dawn
Wow! That puts things in a very different perspective! I’ve often wondered what people will say about me at my funeral and who will take the time to come. I know it’s a strange thing to wonder, but it’s true… and it also helps me sometimes make better, kinder choices when I’m dealing with others. I hope to leave behind good feelings and emotions. Thanks Lance… for this quote and for your awesome support!
Liz Rosenbaum´s last blog post..Falling in Love With Weight Training
Lance,
This is a wise quote, and one I haven’t heard before. It touches something very deep in me. Years ago when I started work and was in awe of people high up in management, I suddenly realised when I went to the toilet that they had to use the toilet just like me, and that really we weren’t much different. That cured me of my awe quite quickly! This quote has the same effect, only much more refined and beautiful. In the end we all return to ashes, and that gives our short life perspective. This is one of your best quotes I think!
Daphne´s last blog post..Free eBook of Personal Creeds
Hey Lance, What inspired you to choose this one? I love history but I’ve never been much for reflecting on legacies. I’m also not moved by tombstones perhaps because our spirits have already moved on.
Tom Volkar / Delightful Work´s last blog post..Killing What Scares You
The Addison quote make me think of the Spanish proverb, “One hundred years hence we shall all be bald.” I suppose it means that in death it is obvious that we are all equals. And while living, we should treat one another with kindness and realize that what we think is important, might not be.
Diane C.´s last blog post..Spring Trees in the Canyon
Whoa…heavy today. But this is good (although I may need another cup of coffee to fully absorb this…lol). Thinking about our death is a good exercise in living actually. It just puts everything in perspective. Let’s try not to get bogged down with all the little things… Thank you for this today!
Caroline´s last blog post..Soulful Sunday
This reminds me that while we all need to live from our authentic selves,we are a part of a much bigger picture. Those behind us have carved as way for us and we continue to etch our part in that image making way for those after us. When we live knowing that we die, I believe that we live with more meaning and vitality. I guess what we have to decide is what will we carve into the image for those after us? Will it move human kind forward or backward? Will we live in a way that helps or hurts? Will we use our God-given gifts to further or hinder God’s plan? Hummmm something to think about here Lance.
Death shows us that love really is the only thing of importance in our lives. The love we leave behind really is our only legacy of importance. Sometimes we get busy gathering things to us and forget about what is really important—people, those we love. I had not read today’s quote before either. Thanks for sharing it.
Patricia — Spiritual Journey Of A Lightworker´s last blog post..Who Would You Be Without Your Story?
This is a very unique find Lance. I know many people feel that the only way for us to be united is through death, where as I believe that we don’t need to die to see and realize the potential of unity, love and oneness that exists while we are still here in physical form.
Evita´s last blog post..Breaking All Limits
This quote is a nice bone to chew on (leave it to you to make me think on a Sunday! ha!) It made me realize that in my quest to really simplify my life and determine what really truly matters, I have actually USED death, or at least the thought of it. Thinking about attachments — like if I was dying, what value does all this stuff cluttering up my life really have? Boy that helped me declutter! I’m not a maudlin person at all, but thinking of how I spend my time, who I spend it with is so important that I try to ask myself if this is really what I want to do with what COULD be the last of my days. Somehow this helps me to keep balanced, and certainly intensifies the sincerity of my intentions.
suzen´s last blog post..Save The Planet — Be in Awe
Hi Lance. It is interesting how death always puts things in perspective. I’m ready. Bring it on!! I can’t wait for the joy that awaits on the other side. From a world of sorrow to a world of peace and happiness. It’s what gives me life.
Jennifer´s last blog post..Want to Make a Difference?
That’s quite a Sunday thought, Lance. I really don’t understand why people are so afraid of death. Maybe because it’s our last deadline? Because after that we shall be accountable for what we’ve done in this lifetime?
Because the travel never ends, my friend, we’re only having some deadlines. And the word is really fit in this context: deadline
Dragos Roua´s last blog post..How To Write An Ebook Using MacJournal
Like Stacey Shipman, this reminds me not to waste my time and to hope that I have enough time to do everything I want to do. And like Tom, I wonder what inspired you to choose this post.
Stacey / Create a Balance´s last blog post..Authentic Happiness Series — Part Two
Deep stuff man. Death is simply a step. We are spiritual beings. It is just the death of this body– I know I think constantly that death is fine, but I am not done yet!
Jay´s last blog post..The Sunday Ponder
Very deep indeed! The pondering begins…thanks!
Hi Lance, timely post as I just spent a week in Paris. One of my absolute favorite parts of the trip was the 3.5 hrs. we spent in Pere-Lachaise. Who knew you could spend that much time in a cemetery. But there are so many luminaries buried there and the grounds are huge. Delacroix, Isadora Duncan, Gertrude Stein, Jim Morrison, Moliere, Oscar Wilde, Chopin, Sarah Berhardt…and on and on. It’s such a peaceful place and so filled with stories. This post brought me back.
Christine Gallagher´s last blog post..The Art of Social Marketing
I had to read it twice for it to really sink in. I’m a curious man, but I don’t really think about the afterlife. There definitely is an afterlife, but I don’t really know how it will go.
For now I’m just letting what is, just be. All I know is that I hope to see you and all the other wonderful people I’ve met online and offline there.
Karl Staib — Work Happy Now´s last blog post..A Pimped Out Cubicle
Hi Lance. My favourite part of this passage was “…the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind.…” These all seem to either keep us separate, or seeking stronger connections. We fear death but I wonder if that is the biggest opportunity for connection of all?
Davina´s last blog post..A Vision of Fulfillment
Well, sieze the moment… carpe articulum.
I have been back a few times, Lance, and I think I now have to add you to my blogroll. Thanks for the inspirational thoughts.
Regards,
Darren
Darren Sproat´s last blog post..So, What does this all mean?
Often times, when I reflect on someone who has died, I usually remember the good and happy moments, but in life, we tend to remember the negative stuff. I don’t want to say it should be reversed because I don’t want to remember someone for the negatives, but we should look for the good in people more when they’re living. Does it seem like this to you, too?
LisaNewton´s last blog post..A Vacation Day at Coldwater Canyon Park
wow– speechless and that doesn’t happen often with me.Death should be looked upon as the celebration of ones life.I recently went through this when a friend died unexpectedly.
After the shock,preserving his memory for his wife and children(family and friends) was more important.
You may found it interesting to read about the Merry Cemetery in Romania.
Very touching article.
Bunny got Blog´s last blog post..Listen To Your Gut, Part 3 — Edith Luchins
@Jeanne — Thanks much Jeanne!
@Evelyn — Our life as we know it will end someday. I don’t think this is morbid at all Evelyn. Preparing for this — I think is something that isn’t done very much. I think I have a lot of work I could do in this area. In preparing our mental and spiritual sides for what is beyond — I think we also help define how we live our lives today. And that’s a very good thing.
@Jannie — Hi Jannie. Satisfying…good! You are COMPLETELY too good to me, do you know that? Thank you! And you, too — my Ukulele friend — keep shining and keep singing!
@Julie — Yes, I’m getting that too — that we’re all really in the same place — here on earth — as human beings — each of us. I too think it can be achieved here — where walls are broken down — on small scales, for sure. Can this happen on a large scale? I’d like to hope so. I’d like to think that we as a people could someday reach a state where compassion rules. Will we get there? I think that by starting small, many great things can happen… Our life is fleeting. Just typing this right now, makes it all seem so short. And that makes me question what I’m really doing in the short time I have here. Julie, the thanks go to you, for this wonderful response — which has me thinking of us all as contemporaries…
@Liz — Hi Liz! I’m not sure that’s all that strange — or if it is strange — then I still see it as good. Good, because it gets you thinking about how to make it so that your funeral is really a celebration of the life you lived. I happen to think you do an awesome job of leaving people with good feelings. I’m glad we’ve connected, it’s great to know you, my friend…thank you.
@Daphne — Okay, your bathroom example really is right on the money. We aren’t really that different from the homeless guy on some deserted street, the CEO of a major company, the famous tv actor, or the guy across the street. We all use the bathroom, we all get sick, we’ve all had lows and highs in our lives, we are similar, all of us. And in the end, we all die. That sounds so final. And yet, it also does provide perspective, as you’ve stated. A perspective that our time on earth is short. And how are we going to use that time? Thank you Daphne.
@Tom — Hi Tom. The inspiration for this one…
“when I consider rival wits placed side by side, or the men that divided the world with their contests and disputes, I reflect with sorrow and astonishment on the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind.” This is the part of the quote that spoke most to me. And it did because of an ongoing conversation I’ve been having with a friend. Without going into detail, I was drawn in to this idea of factions, or conflicts, and how these little things can sometimes divide our world, our own personal world — if we let them. And how much pain this can cause. And for what? So, it wasn’ so much the idea of tombstones or history, and more the idea that — why are we creating so many conflicts today, what is the purpose, really — where is it getting us? Ultimately we will die, all of us. Why can’t we find more compassion and peace here on this earth in the time we have here. And this quote spoke very deeply to me on this angle…
@Diane — Hi Diane. I like that, the Spanish proverb. Yes, upon death I see us as all equals. And that goes toward treating people with respect (and kindness) today. Thank you Diane.
@Caroline — Don’t worry, I had several cups of coffee to go along with this! That’s an important, although I’d guess often overlooked thing — thinking about our death. Yet, when we do — we see that just like everyone else, our days as a human being here on earth will sometime end. And there’s much perspective, yes, that can be gained from that whole thought process (as hard as it can be to do).
@Laurie — Hi Laurie. Living with meaning — what a great thought to build this on. By truly realizing that death will someday be with us — we do look at the world a bit differently, a bit more compassionately, I hope. We all certainly have choices. What will I choose to do? What will you choose to do? I think I know what you’re choosing, Laurie, and it is very much helping and moving us forward. You are making this world a better place, and I feel like a recipient in all of that…thank you.
@Patricia — Spiritual Journey of a Lightworker — Love, how important that is. We can do good in many ways, although it’s all that is done with love as a part of it that really leaves a message of hope for future generations.
@Evita — Hi Evita. Thank you for this thought. Death is where we do seem united. What I’m taking from this is how maybe seeing that as such — seeing our death as uniting — maybe we can get to that point in our lives today. The thought of this really is such a beautiful thought — seeing unity today. Or, seeing unity in life, or more specifically this life of ours here on earth. And I know very much that you live toward this, I experienced it in your words, and it’s what brings me back over and over to what you have to share.
@Suzen — I guess it’s a thinking Sunday today! What do we value? What a great thought Suzen. If I’m thinking about tomorrow — then I probably have lots I value. If I’m thinking that someday I’ll leave this earthly home, then what I value changes — to more of a loving value. Thanks much for this Suzen…
@Jennifer — Hi Jennifer. My first instinct upon reading this was — really?? Ready? And then I re-read what you wrote, and let it sink in. I’m not sure I’m there yet, to being “ready” for what lies beyond here. I know we have a very similar philosophy on what is beyond…still, it’s the unknown that makes me apprehensive. I believe we are destined for a place of much peace and happiness, yet it’s so non-concrete for me to fully say “I’m ready”. Jennifer, that you are at this spot, that you are okay with what lies ahead — what a wonderful place for you to be. And what I think that also does is help to bring out the peace and happiness here on earth — I see that in you. And…that helps me feel like I’m maybe a step closer to saying “I’m ready”… And for that, I thank you, very much.…
@Dragos — I think death scares people because of the unknown of what lies beyond it. Am I afraid? Probably. Because, if I died today, what really comes next (as much as I have a belief already, it is still unknown) — and what about my family. Beyond that, I’m good (although, those are pretty big things!). I’m giving this some good thought, Dragos, the “deadline” idea. I’m liking it, a deadline, and then we move on in our travels. Very good thought, thanks much!
@Stacey/Create A Balance — Hi Stacey. When we think of the end, our end, here on earth — when we really think of this, I think it can change our whole thought process. And on what matters. And what do we really want to have done when our time is done? Good thoughts. To your second part — see my response to Tom, where I try to answer it…
@Jay — Hi Jay. If you believe that we are spiritual beings here on earth (which I do), then I too see this as a step. The thing is that step from our earthly world to what lies beyond is hard to grasp. Good for you, Jay, in being at the point where you are okay with death. This one is hard for me, and one I’m working toward. And on a similar vein — hopefully non of us are done while we are still here (although I think that’s not the case…). This is deep for me too. Very deep…
@Mark Salinas — Hi Mark. I wish you well as you ponder this…
@Christine — Hi Christine. First off, I hope you enjoyed your visit to Paris. This quote speaks exactly to what you’ve experienced — visiting so many great in this cemetery. I have to think this is a moving experience to visit such a place, and fully realize you are walking amongst those greats who have passed before you. And yet, here you are with them… Thanks so much for sharing this Christine.
@Karl — The “afterlife”, and what it is — this is a large mystery. We may have ideas, or preconceptions, yet it’s something we won’t know until our time has come. Maybe that’s part of the key to this, accepting it and then not really thinking about it too much. And I do believe we will meet someday Karl. It may be here, and if it’s not — then I too believe our time will come in what lies after this time here on earth. And that’s a pretty great thought!
@Davina — Hi Davina. You know, that was the part that really drew me in on this quote the — “…the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind….” Death being our biggest connection. You know what jumps out at me with that thought — this is a way that we are all connected. Everyone of us will experience this someday. If we can have the fortitude to look toward the future and to our own death –everyone of us — I wonder if this wouldn’t bring us all a bit closer together? Davina, what a great addition to the conversation here today. This idea of connection…
@Darren — Hi Darren. Seize the moment, yes indeed! That’s what we have for sure. Thanks for stopping by today.
@LisaNewton — Hi Lisa. Looking for the good when people are still alive — what a wonderful thought. And why not! Why not see the good in people today, when they are still with us, and let them know just how much they mean. Lisa, thank you! And thank you, also, for being such a positive influence here — I appreciate it all very much!
@Bunny — Hi Bunny. Yes, I agree that while it’s okay to mourn the loss of a loved one, it’s also important to celebrate their life — and the good that was done. I think that gives us all hope in ourselves and the world around us — seeing the good in others. I’ll check out the Merry Cemetery, thanks much Bunny…
Beautifully written Lance.
In my Grandmother’s passing I have learned many lessons. When it is my time I pray my impact will leave many smiles and less tears.
Tabitha´s last blog post..Soul Deep Sunday
Hi Lance
Very different emotions this evokes in me:
sobering (but in a good way), peace (perhaps because of the length of the message and the wording), depth (it touches somewhere at a core of knowing).
Thank you for something different.
Juliet
LifeMadeGreat | Juliet´s last blog post..Being Understood — Juliet’s Comment
Death can be very uncomfortable for some people to talk about. I thinking my own funeral. I think about speaking at my funeral. What will I say? Will I speak about things I done? Or will I speak about my regrets? What I should have done? Will there be anybody there that can speak about how I did make a difference?
This whole thing about me speaking at my own funeral became a driving force. It motivated me to live every day to the fullest. Do everything I can with every chance I got. Say everything I need to say, whenever I feel that I should say them. I don’t want to have to say “I should have done…” Or “I should have said…” I want No Regrets!
Thank you for this Sunday thought.
Giovanna Garcia
Imperfect Action is better than No Action
Giovanna Garcia´s last blog post..Believe in yourself.
Spending some time in Tuscany this past week really brought things into perspective for me about how I desire to live my life…and the answer is: SIMPLE. We can learn so much from our ancestors and our beliefs if we just listen! Thanks Lance!
Rupal´s last blog post..Travel Tips!
@Tabitha — When someone we love passes on — there usually are tears, and that’s okay. It shows they will be missed. If we aslo elicit smiles, in remembrance of a life well-lived, then this is a pretty great combination. It sounds like your Grandmother had that kind of impact, and that’s very nice to hear.
@Juliet — Hi Juliet. It is sobering thinking that our time here on earth is fleeting. And at the same time, if we can let this really settle into our soul, this thought, there is much impact that can happen even today — and that can bring much peace. Thank you for your thoughts Juliet.
@Giovanna — This is great Giovanna. By looking at this with such depth, what a way to work toward living your life to it’s fullest. “No regrets” is a great philosophy to live by. Even if we get some things wrong along the way, we’re doing and being — and these are important steps in living the life we want. Thanks much, Giovanna — you’re showing the real power in looking at our life’s end now.
@Rupal — Hi Rupal. Sounds like a wonderful time you’ve had in Tuscany. And the idea that we don’t have to make our live overly complex — is a comforting thought. Live by what feels “right”. Thinking of all those who have went before us, and how we will someday join them — sure does bring things into perspective.
Humbling.
Mama Zen´s last blog post..Theo * Meteorology
speechless! WOW what a provoking thought an idea, this is something that you can not walk away from untouched, thanks Lance!
bobbi´s last blog post..Sure I’ll Model for You!
There’s always a certain awe when walking through a cemetery. I spend a lot of time in them thinking about the people who were.
Lisa’s Chaos´s last blog post..Chiming Macro Monday
I recently walked through a cemetery with my kids. I think it’s a part of life that we should not ignore or be afraid of.
Annette´s last blog post..Sunnier Days
I’ve always liked to walk through cemeteries. Not so sure I’m going to like living there.
I’ve seen some very fascinating grave sites.
Dr. J´s last blog post..Nibbles: Cholesterol drugs help, heavy kids show early markers of heart risk and saving diabetic feet
Hi Lance,
First,thank you for always posting a great quote. Most of all, thanks for ALL the quotes you post, not just the feel good type. And this one doesn’t feel bad to me. I know exactly where I’m going after I die, there is no question, no fear of the unknown. Sometimes I do become afraid of how I will die, but even that, I trust to God. Carry on my friend!
Audra Krell´s last blog post..Daisy Chain Review and Interview
Hi Lance: I guess this quote reminds us to look at every day nuisances and small grievances and ask ourselves: will this really matter in the long run? If not, then just move on because life’s too short to spend dwelling on unimportant things.
Marelisa´s last blog post..Creative Insights From the Worldwide Web
I have been dreaming a great deal about death these days. I am not much on tombstones and grave sites. I know a few people think that graves are grounding and they can’t live without them.…I think they are baggage that we carry with us and need shedding. I got my income taxes done and could throw away and put away all those things no longer needed — what freedom. I will shredded the 7 year old stuff.…
I do like the quote and thinking about us putting away and moving on blooming our new lives.…rolling away the stones.
I went to a fundraiser for sexually abused children this weekend — why in this day and age is this still a problem? We have not learned to truly love…
Patricia´s last blog post..A Prayer in Spring
I recently had the experience of attending the funerals of two family members. One was in the mid season of her life, very unexpectedly dying at 44 leaving a family of late teen children and a husband of 20 years. The other a the end season of his life dying at 77. What I learned from my young cousin was how much devotion to family impacts our epitaphs and from my older uncle how a life with hurts and regrets equally impacts our epitaphs. Make me more clearly define my living epitaph!
avtcoach´s last blog post..Reflecting On Our Words: March
“I reflect with sorrow and astonishment on the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind.”
I wish everyone could realize this on a daily basis.
I am so, SO late to this party. Went skiing this weekend!
Vered — MomGrind´s last blog post..Teen Fashion
Hi Lance, A quite different quote from you. We all will eventually face death, but we can choose how to be remembered.
Thank you.
Arswino´s last blog post..Success is The Path You Choosed
@Mama Zen — Yes, this is humbling…
@Bobbi — Hi Bobbi. If you really let this soak in, then yes, this can touch you deeply.
@Lisa’s Chaos — Hi Lisa. This is something I haven’t really did very much of — walking in a cemetery. And reading this, and your comment, and all the comments — makes me realize there is something about visiting a cemetery, and about thinking about the people who have passed before us — that can be both comforting, and can also be powerful in thinking of the many who have died — and did they live a full life.
@Annette — Good for you Annette, getting out there with your kids. I think it helps to show that life should be lived. Will they get it? Maybe, maybe not. And maybe it’s that we keep doing it, keep showing them, in different forms, that life is about living. Visiting a cemetery is one way, I think. Thanks much, my friend…
@Dr. J — Hmmm…living there, in cemeteries…interesting thought. I wonder, do our bodies stay there, while our spirit moves on. If we are spiritual beings here on earth, having a human experience — a belief that I have — then I see a cemetery as just a home for our earthly bodies — while our spirit travels on to new places…
@Audra — Hi Audra. I’m glad to hear this doesn’t feel bad. I posted this, and I struggled with it at the same time. So, the comments have been therapeutic. Including, very much, yours — Audra. So, thank you for being so open about your beliefs — they are freeing for me…
@Marelisa — Hi Mare. It sure does remind me of that — the little things we get so concerned with — that weight us down. Are they worth it? Great point Mare, thank you.
@Patricia — “We have not learned to truly love…” — Patricia, if we could solve just one thing in this world, this would be that thing to solve. Getting to that point of truly loving — what a great basis for everything else. And yes, graves are not a permanent home, I see them as a storage for our physical body, while our spirit moves on…
@Avtcoach — First off, I’m sorry to hear of your losses. I don’t know if death is ever easy, and especially when it occurs at a young age. Family is an important part of our lives, and especially so if we make it a priority. As well, you bring up another excellent point — that of regrets. Is that the life we want — one where we regret having not done something? Lots of stuff to think about here, thank you.
@Vered — This was exactly the part that really jumped out for me in this quote when I first read it also. And how far-reaching that one part can be… Skiing! Awesome, Vered — life’s about living, and you’re doing that!!
@Arswino — Hi Arswino. I’m pulling from this the word “choice”. Something we all have — what choices will we make today, and how will that change how people remember us when we’re gone. Good stuff, thanks.
“Tombs of the great” is such a perfect phrase.
It gets me thinking of Seth Godin on two of his points:
1. what matters is your world … and your world can be as big or as small as you make it.
2. life is like skiing … have as many good runs as you can before the sun sets.
J.D. Meier´s last blog post..Finding Your Values
Love is the only truth that exists. Everything else is a distraction from the turth you may spend a physical lifetime exploring. Sense what matters and discard the rest.
Liara Covert´s last blog post..How does soul progress?
Lance, thank you for your reply AND your connection! :~)
Davina´s last blog post..Good Advice in Tough Times