Monday, April 5, 2010

Optimistic Mondays – Live Like You're Dying

Okay, so I know this post is later than usual, but hey – it’s still Monday – at least for a couple more hours.
Sunday, I drove up to Idaho for my grandpa’s funeral, which took place today. I didn’t get a post done before I left, so here I am.
After such a weekend, I’m feeling especially optimistic.
I’m not particularly sad over my grandpa’s passing. He was 90 years old, and suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. He didn’t know anyone, and he didn’t remember who he used to be. I’m happy for the reunion that must be happening on the other side. My grandma passed away 23 years ago, and they are now re-united. I am sad for those he left behind, who will miss him. He left a wonderful legacy.
My grandpa had 27 grandchildren. All but one of them was able to be there for the funeral. They came from all over the country, to pay tribute. I spent several hours with family members I hadn’t seen in a long time, and got to know them a little better.
I even got to do a little research for my newest novel, and made a wonderful contact that will help me along the way.
Tonight, I’m thankful for so many blessings in my life. Among them, I was blessed with safe travel. I was blessed with helpful family members, when both of my kids needed attention at the same time. I was blessed with inspiration, and motivation.
While gathered for the funeral, one of my cousins requested a certain picture. Three of us cousins were born within months of each other, and we each turned 30 within the last few months. She wanted a picture of the three thirty-year olds together. After the picture was taken, we realized that our combined age totaled that of our grandpa.

When I think about how much I’ve learned, grown, and matured in the last ten years alone, it makes me look forward to the years that wait ahead for me. Grandpa got 90. I’ve had 30 so far. I hope to have another 60 in me, and I hope to use each one of them wisely.
Are you happy with the direction your life is going? If not, go and do something about it. Don’t waste another day.
Happy Monday

5 comments:

Andrea :) said...

Thanks for the reminder. I hope I can live the next 30 or 60 years of my life and look back with no regrets.

MTeacress said...

Isn't there a song with "Live like you're dying" lyrics? I hope I live a good long life too. I want to be around for my kids and their families. :)

Tiffany said...

Good reminder, thanks!

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful tribute, to live the next 60 as best as you can. thank you for the reminder to do the same.

Brooke S said...

I need this one - way better than the choices I had on my camera. :)