figure out what I would do if I had six months to live, and then do those things NOW

back home in Texas.

Devising a plan….

was that I’d move home and be with my family.
This thought was scary so I swallowed it.

It popped up again two weeks ago out of nowhere, while I was standing by the river: I’d go back to Texas. I really miss my family.

This morning, it hit me: Peace corps. I have always wanted to do this. But I applied for a job in Chicago because I had a serious relationship I didn’t want to lose and he wasn’t interested in coming along to a random country. Well… no need to explain that it didn’t work out.

So what is keeping me from doing this? I am young, capable, unattached, and passionate about helping people.

Very exciting thoughts now!!

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.
—Goethe

Living Your Priorities

Here is a simple way to get in touch with your priorities. Imagine that you have an incurable illness and are given six months to live. As the doctors inform you of their findings, see yourself accepting your imminent mortality with the resolve, “I am going to spend the last months of my life living to the fullest, doing those things that are truly important to me.” Then imagine yourself living out those six months in the manner in which you have decided.

Afterwards, note your experience. During your remaining days, what did you do, who did you see, and where did you go? What do these choices say about what is really important to you – your values and priorities? Are you living them today? If you are not, you may want to learn from Tony’s story.

After being diagnosed with AIDS, Tony decided to embrace life. He bought a house, planted a garden, and nurtured his important relationships. As a result, he lived the remaining three years of his life in pure joy.

The tragedy is that his life ended just as he was beginning to live. Why wait for a life threatening experience to motivate you to take action? Confront your fears and pursue what brings you happiness and joy.

There is no better time than now.