Recently I ran across a YouTube video that had a young man, Kristian Anderson, doing a video for his wife’s surprise birthday party. It was an emotional video by itself. Mention the fact that Kristian had terminal cancer when he filmed it and it takes on a whole new level.
After the video I picked up a copy of his book (see the review here) about his journey. His willingness to share about the condition and what he was going through was inspirational and can give hope to many others in similar situations.
In the book Kristian talks about going to the pharmacy and standing in line where a woman recognized him because he was on “Oprah” some time before. Let me put in his own words:
“I arrived at the pharmacy and as I am standing in line a young woman approached me and, with an accent, proceeded to very timidly ask if I was “from Oprah”. I told her that I was and she smiled an enormous smile. She told me she had multiple sclerosis and that for a long time she had been battling serious depression. She told me that after seeing our story on the Oprah show she was so deeply moved and encouraged… and her depression left her. She then thanked me for my courage and for helping her… told me that without me she would still be suffering depression.” (link)
Kristian was battling cancer which is a horrid disease yet there was some light that he was able to shed for other people. If we can spread inspiration in front of adversity then why can’t we do it when times are good?
Some time in the next seven days find a way to spread some light into someone’s life who is having a rough time. Take them dinner, talk to them, or give them an inspiring book – just do something to shed some light.
“Days Like These: Even in the Darkest Moments, Light Can Shine Through” is a book of collected blog postings by Kristian Anderson and includes insights and information from his wife Rachel.
College isn’t for everyone. I think it is obvious but we are still being encouraged to go to a traditional college after high school. While I highly believe in education I think there are other ways of getting it. 20 years ago a traditional school may have been your best option, however, there is such easy access to material that self education can give you more knowledge than going to college.
Jennifer has once again provided an excellent resource to those who want to stay on track and stay motivated for the first 100 days of the year. In her most recent edition, Jennifer takes you day by day from January 1-April 23.
“The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant” by Terry Felber follows Julio and his grandfather Antonio as his grandfather imparts wisdom on the young boy. It is a parable that explains how to run a business properly with principles such as staying out of debt, taking responsibility, and keeping a budget.
It is time for everyone to start their resolutions but I urge you: DON’T! Why? Well, how many times have you or a family member made a New Year’s Resolution and come February (or a week later) you have already forgotten about it or dropped it? Exactly. That is why I urge you to make New Year’s Goals instead.
