'The Last Lecture'

Some, or maybe many, of you have heard of Randy Pausch and his book The Last Lecture. My father called me to tell me Dianne Sawyer was going to do an interview show on him and that I might want to record it and watch. That was the first I'd heard of him. Then, a couple of friends emailed to tell me about him as well. I've just finished reading his book. It's a very easy read.

He is a college professor who has terminal pancreatic cancer. He gave the 'last lecture' at his university which is a tradition where someone is invited to give the last lecture of the school year. You can watch it at http://youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo (about an hour). He also did the commencement address at Carnegie Mellon http://youtube.com/watch?v=RcYv5x6gZTA&feature=user (6.5 minutes).

He's very inspiring. He has a look out on the world (and has for most of his life) that should be a touchstone to us. He manages to eloquently speak many of the same things I've learned and believe. Though, I have to say, I did not write a 'dream' list when I was a child. But I did have the dream to go to Africa and I fulfilled that one twice.

I'm learning even more about what's important. It doesn't matter whether I go to the dog show this weekend--even tho two good friends came over and bathed and groomed him for us. At least they brought an extra marguerita for Michael. :-P The important thing is that I probably stay home, don't pick up anymore 'bugs', and don't infect anyone else. They can take him, have a good time, and I will be happy with how he does, regardless of the outcome.

Anyway, check out Randy if you have a moment. I have the book if anyone local wants to borrow it. Everything he has to say is relevant whether you have 3-6 months to live (he's past that at 9 now), or whether you will live to be 100. It's not a downer, it's very uplifting.

Enjoy!