There's a tradition at some universities for professors to deliver what's called a "Last Lecture." They're supposed to imagine that it's the last lecture they'll ever give. When Rancy Pausch was asked to give his last lecture, he knew it really would be just that. He had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, and had only months to live.
Perhaps you've already heard about this - apparently it's been all over the news - but I live in my own little world over here so I didn't hear about it until last Saturday. Katy showed me her copy when Brian and I picked up the kids, and told me I could borrow it after her mom . Well, Sunday we go to Brian's parents' house for Fast Sunday dinner, and I see the book sitting on the counter. Kathy's next to have it. I understand that. But it can't hurt to pick it up and just read the first few pages, right?
Three hours later, I was done.
I guess that's how you weasel your way to the front of the line. Hee hee.
Anyway, it's an amazing book, full of optimism and advice on how to live a great life. More than that, it's about chasing your childhood dreams. I loved all the little nuggets of wisdom in it. I think my favorite was the story about his childhood football coach, wherein it is demonstrated that you don't give a child self esteem, rather, self esteem is something a child earns. I've witnessed the truth of this with my own children.
If you want to watch the lecture and learn more about Randy, go to the website here.
5 comments:
Is this book gonna make me cry?
I don't remember crying, so I don't think so. It's pretty straightforward about his cancer, but that's not the focus of what he talks about. He really does focus on living positively, no matter when you think you're dying.
I've heard about it! I need to get a hold of that too! I love your book recommendations. I think we have similar taste. I'm finishing "Hiding Place" now. I've always been wanting to read that book. Keep giving me a list!
I think if you liked this kind of fast, inspirational read you would also like "The Ulitimate Gift." I have a copy. Its quick, makes you feel good, and inspirational.
I will have to add this to my list of books to read.
I saw that guy on Oprah and various news channels(man I watch too much tv). I should read the book, because he was very interesting to listen to.
I'm not an Oprah book club fan, but I do kind of want to read A (the?) New Earth. That's also suppose to be very inspirational. How about you read it first and then let me know if it's worth the time K?(:
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