“Every man dies ~not every man really lives”  William Ross

If your goal for 2009 is to live your life to the fullest then spend more time reflecting on your death then you do planning your life!

                                                            
It may sound a bit morbid at first, but the truth is, when I consider the possibility that I may die tomorrow, my today changes.  Suddenly I have permission to do what I want to do.  I stop and smell the roses.  I take a long lunch and let the housework take a back burner. The incessant talking of my 7 year old that used to annoy me becomes music to my ears and the chilly whip of cold wind that sends shivers from head to toe becomes exhilarating instead of "Icky!"

You see, when I approach today as if it is my last, I’m a lot less likely to rush through the things I’m doing and more importantly, the things I choose to do are actually things that bring meaning and joy to my life and to those I love. When I’m contemplating my impending demise, the “have to’s, should's and supposed to’s of a “ruled” world instantly melt away to make room for the desires of my heart. How exciting is that?!?

One of my favorite movies is called "The Last Holiday" starring Queen Latifah. It's a perfect example of the joy that comes from living like you're dying.   My kids know when I'm feeling in a rut because that movie is playing and I'm knee deep in popcorn! 

I had the pleasure of hearing Mary Manin Morrissey speak last Sunday at a church near my home and she said something that really stuck with me.  She said, “Some people live 90 years. Other people live 1 year 90 times.”  Yikes!! I don't know about you, but  sometimes 1 year, 1 time is MORE than enough for me!

If your goal for 2009 is to truly live, don’t wait!  I happily bestow on you the Kiss of Death.  Use it wisely!!
To learn more about Mary Morrissey, visit her website  https://www.lifesoulutions.com   

And, for a little preview of "The Last Holiday" click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xd1GnRZoN2o