Your "Last Lecture"
I just found out today that Randy Pausch, the Carnegie Mellon professor who wrote the book The Last Lecture died today. Of course, many of you have seen his last lecture on YouTube or read his book. In fact, Chris just finished his book today. Pausch told USA Today at an interview in his home in March that his last lecture was never meant for public consumption and that it really wasn’t for his colleagues and students. It was for his 2 sons and daughter – Dylan 6, Logan 3 and Chloe 2. He said if people are finding inspiration – ok – but the book is really for my kids.
I think that’s really powerful because Randy Pausch knew his time one earth was short and that he had just a few months to live when he gave his last lecture. But he knew the most important thing was leaving a legacy.
I want to encourage you today, for those of you that have children, to really think about what they will remember about you when you are gone. Moms, will your kids remember that you had fun with them? Dads, will your kids remember that you were always there for them? Or when they think of you will they think that you were always stressed or you were always at work or you were always distant or aloof?
I really encourage you to write me today and tell me your thoughts on Randy Pausch’s life and how you want to live differently because of it.
Comments
I remember the first time I saw the last lecture,I cried like a baby! The thing that stuck with me was how Randy said his parents let him draw on his walls of his room,it is still there today! I have always been anal about things like that, not anymore, my daughter has her posters everywhere.
Posted by: Barbara Nagelhout | July 29, 2008 01:06 PM
Kerry,
Thank you for the thought-provoking post. My thoughts too were moved in that direction when I heard the news of Randy's passing. Having just lost a dear friend to cancer eight short months ago at the age of 35, I am amazed and encouraged by those who live life with such faith and passion, even in the midst of such a trial. (I posted more of my thoughts on this on my blog...)
Thank you for all the hope you bring into the lives of so many.
- Carrie
Posted by: Carrie | July 29, 2008 07:06 AM