dispatches from the new world of work

100 Ways to Succeed #128:

And You [Me]?

I wish you a long life, but if tragedy were to have struck you yesterday, what do you think "they" would say at your memorial service? This maudlin question is not to be dwelt on "24/7," but it is worth considering on an irregularly regular basis.

Tom Peters posted this on 06/24/08.

Comments

Tom, I think "they" (and especially me) would say you were a generous soul who gave inspiration and knowledge with true enthusiasm! Just thought I would share my appreciation of you while we're on the subject.

Posted by Joy at June 24, 2008 1:35 PM

Tom – you may recall our much-loved British comedy legend Spike Milligan (my favourite of famous ‘Goons’) wrote his own epitaph before his untimely death in 1982 - ‘I told you I was ill.’ Classic Milligan – sorely missed.

As for me I’d be thrilled if ‘they’ said – ‘He died scoring the winning goal while playing football (soccer) for his over 100’s five a side team.’

Or more seriously – ‘He encouraged us’

Posted by Trevor Gay at June 24, 2008 3:04 PM

My grandmother used to say that whey you died, nobody raved over how good a housekeeper you were while alive, so why are you being so anal about it? Truer words never uttered.

Posted by Mike at June 24, 2008 4:31 PM

My epitaph: "Anyone know his password?"

Posted by Mike L. at June 24, 2008 7:21 PM

All I could ask for, is to be remembered for,is giving 100 percent to everything I did!

Posted by Cindy W at June 25, 2008 8:44 PM

"She loved deeply and gave freely."

Posted by Judith Ellis at June 27, 2008 9:15 AM

Considering reflection on death morbid is a Western phenomenon. Rather than averting our eyes from the inevitability of our death, by embracing mortality and fully accepting the temporary and fleeting nature of life, it is then possible to be free from the illusion of permanence to live fully in each moment. Without the burden of fear of our own end, we can simply focus of using what time, energy and money on serving our family, organisation, community and nation. Every breath is my epitaph.

Cameron from Leaders' Log
www.leaderslog.com

Posted by Cameron Price at June 28, 2008 9:19 PM

Wonderful, Cameron. What a thought: "every breath is my epitaph." That brings us forever in acting and making conscious decisions for the betterment of all in the here and now. You have spoken well. Thank you.

Posted by Judith Ellis at June 29, 2008 6:01 PM