When My Life is Through

Amelia Earhart

"KHAQQ calling Itasca. We must be on you, but cannot see you. Gas is running low."
Last radio communiqué before her disappearance.~~ Amelia Earhart, d. 1937


At the point when we realize that our life is through, what will run through your mind?

In Amelia Earhart's case, she died in the midst of her greatest challenge, in a daring around the world flight. Not all of us will die so suddenly, or so heroically. Most of us will probably have time to reflect on what we experienced throughout the years.

Eric Idle

Of course, as former Monty Python member Eric Idle sings, we always try to look on the brighter side of life. But, as we near the end of life, it may look at more of a mixture of thoughts. At that point, money and fame won't be our chief concern. 

Once the game is over, the king and the pawn go back into the same box.

What Will I Think About?

I imagine that in my case, when my life is through I will be thinking of my wife, and the fullness of life that I experienced since we met, and throughout our lives. I will think of my children, and be grateful for their lives, love, and accomplishments. I'd recall the strong influence of my parents and brother.

I'll probably think about the people I worked with, and the schoolchildren I knew, as a teacher trainer in the Peace Corps. I'd reflect on the close friends I've had over the years.

I might reflect on my fond memories of triumphs in tennis, baseball, and jujitsu. I' may feel a sense of satisfaction that I took the time to share my knowledge and experience in the books I wrote.

The Value of Thinking About the End

Reflecting on our demise has value because it helps us to realize what is truly important in life.

Mostly, I find that I value most the relationships that I have had with people, and the worthwhile accomplishments that I have dedicated my heart to.

There may be things in your life that you would like to have accomplished, but never had the time. Now's a good time to take inventory and start on that path to your deeply held goals.

The Magic of Lists

Author James Allen, in his inspiring little book As You Think, said "all we achieve and all that we fail to achieve is the direct result of our own thoughts."

I find it useful to make a list of the things that you would like to accomplish. Something magical happens when you write your goals on a piece of paper and carry it around with you everywhere you go.

I made a list of goals some 20 years ago after reading an article about the value of setting goals. I carried that list in my billfold for several years. A few days ago I came across that list. A few items from my list were:

1. Learn to speak fluent Spanish
2. Live and work in Latin America
3. Write a book that would be helpful for others

Almost everything that I had written on my list had come to pass.

Death may be nature's way of telling us to slow down, so don't wait too long to spring into action.

Ask Away

I think that the universe gives us precisely what we ask for, no more, no less. So ask away.



Upcoming Radio Interviews
Tune in Tuesday, January 10th at 7 PM eastern standard time for post holiday treat, as I will be discussing my new book "Carve Out Your Niche" right here on the ArtistFirst Radio Network (http://www.artistfirst.com/).

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