Carpe Diem! It’s a popular Latin phrase that literally means seize the day.
It is interesting to reflect on what you value at various stages of life. As an elementary kid I valued recess and candy. As a middle schooler I valued popularity and Clearasil (this was my generation’s version of Proactive anti-acne cream.) In high school I valued athletics, grades, part-time jobs and girls. In college I valued new networks, global thinking and my preparation for an exciting career. As a newlywed (thirty years ago!), I valued stability, good credit scores and payday.
Today, as man who is fifty-four years of age, what I endeavor to seize is much different. During my younger years I attempted to seize that which helped my success, popularity and comfort. And although I still have (or, suffer from) a healthy drive in life…what I am achieving is a means to an end rather than the desired end. For example, I still enjoy getting paid for the work I do, however, I am more concerned with how I leverage that pay to create memories via vacations with my teen daughter and/or aging mother. As I am invited all over the world to lecture, preach or consult on various humanitarian issues, what I savor is the tremendous people I meet as well as the opportunity to bring others along with me. [Read more…] about Carpe Diem (Seizing the Day)
Last Saturday I co-led a funeral for a very dear friend who lost an ugly battle with cancer. It was a very beautiful and moving memorial service. There were poems, reflections from lifelong friends, scripture readings, favorite hymns, Eucharist and several memorable photos. I walked away feeling as though we had truly sent off our dear friend into her eternal rest in great celebratory style.