Our life is a collection of moments, people, places, and wisdom that we gain along the way. I believe that every person and every experience that we have has a special purpose. There are just too many people to meet, too many places to go, and too many experiences to have for it not to all be for a certain reason. And so, with the insight we gain along the way, it is our responsibility to share it.
Last night, I finished my final class in Business Management 301 at Penn State. Normally, this class would have taken place in a large lecture hall of 300 students. Before the semester began, I wondered to myself how my professor would bring the same kind of enthusiasm and engagement this time around. I think I have figured out the secret to his success. My professor was aspiring to inspire each and every one of us, every Monday and Wednesday.
It would have been so easy, and quite acceptable for him to simply deliver the class material and content and call it a day. But instead, he chose to connect with us. Throughout each class he would share pieces of poignant wisdom, funny stories from his own life, and pieces of advice that he has learned through his own success. And at the end of each class, he would say “promise me you are going to be safe and responsible”. It was a sentiment for the times, but also a thoughtful statement that showed how he cared for his students.
At the end of this last class he said:
“Make sure for the rest of your life, if I don’t see you again, promise me you are going to be safe and responsible. And have a great life.”
This simple message reminded me that at the end of the day, what is most important is that we live life in the best way we know how. And always, always share it with others.
Take a moment to think about the family, friends, and people in your life. Even the people that we meet in passing, by chance. Like my professor who made an effort to show us that he cared. That he believes in us. We have the power to change the lives of those around us. In big ways and in small. And, afterall, isn’t that one of the most beautiful parts of life…. sharing it together.
A Paige From My Book 