If you expected to find a post on faith today, I apologise...I found something the other day that I wanted to get posted while the strength of conviction was fresh.
They are simply the most important words a dying person can hear.
I was listening to an audio version of Randy Pausch's "The Last Lecture". Close to the end he was describing the "last lecture" itself, which he delivered at Carnegie Mellon university...on the day after his wife's birthday.
That special day, probably the last they would have together, had been a travel day. It didn't rest easy with Jaye, his wife, but she accepted the importance of the event, and flew in on the day of the lecture.
At the end of the talk, Dr. Pausch made note of the fact that his wife's birthday celebration had been sacrificed, and he asked the audience to sing her "Happy Birthday", and asked her to take the stage with him.
As they embraced, she whispered in his ear.
"Please don't die."
If you have one thing to say to a loved one who's dying, please say that.
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Just beautiful! Your words are becoming your legacy and I am glad that I have been honored to read them. Blessings!
ReplyDeleteMary, thank you so much. Your words mean more than I can say.
DeleteConsider it to be on a continual loop.
ReplyDeleteSF.
Still in the fight. SF 1/9 - The Dead still walk.
DeleteI watched parts of Randy Pausch's message years ago and remember that it was very moving. I would think it would be something you'd resonate with greatly, Andrew. I do hope that your loved ones would be quick to tell you how much you mean to them. And this is a cautionary word to those who also are walking your same journey--the words of love must be shared! You are an amazing man, my friend!
ReplyDeleteBeth, thank you. The Last Lecture does have a somewhat eerie resonance for me, similar professions, similar prognoses, but I gain resolve on each visit. He was and is a great man.
DeleteBeth, I am sorry I have not been able to comment at Messy Marriage lately; the Smart Phone seems to dislike the comment form...and, honestly, my energy is fading.
DeletePlease don't die! Just three "little" words; yet, so powerful and have me tearing up...perhaps because we - your friends and readers and fellow bloggers - are somewhat on this journey with you. The words you share in your posts each day are beautiful, to the point, and inspire me to want to live my life ... perhaps, better?! Different?! I don't know...just thank you, Andrew!
ReplyDeleteStill with you - praying!
Thank you, Barbara. Your comments and support give me more strength than you know. I am sorry I have not been by your blog recently; I have very limited internet time, and little energy now.
DeleteAndrew, you certainly do not need to apologize or feel bad about not reading other's blogs! Your time is being spent inspiring us; but you have so much that I am sure you want/need to do with that energy and you must use it wisely...as I know you are!
DeleteAndrew, I am very saddened that you are so ill. I have been keeping you in my prayers and miss all your nice comments, but I know that you are taking care of yourself, which is so important. Please know that I will continue to pray for you. You commented on my blog a few months ago with this, "Winning isn’t about a cure. It’s just about fighting and not giving up". That comment is something that gets me through my hard days. Know that you have inspired me so much, and because of your words, I have the courage to not give up.....Don't you give up, keep on fighting. - Brittany Nicole
ReplyDeleteYou made my day, by being here! Aside from some rather dread days of illness, I've had very limited internet access; I'm using a borrowed Smart Phone, and I can only use it for a short time. No email, either!
DeleteI miss your blog; I will be back, and I am, and shall remain in the fight.
Andrew, your words are like sacred ground to me. I feel like I'm not qualified to stand on it with you. I appreciate hearing your perspective on something I've never had to walk through (yet). It's just a matter of timing though. Thanks for paving the way, brother.
ReplyDeleteLisa, the wisdom and steadfast faith of your heart qualifies you from the start.
DeletePlease do stand with me, here. This is a lonely place.