Peter O’Toole in the 1962 film, Lawrence of Arabia
(Wikimedia Commons)
As 2013 draws to a close, I compiled this roster of my favorite iconic figures who have passed away this year. In life, they graced us with their genius and charm. They leave behind a legacy in film, music and literary accomplishments, on stage, and as inspirational political leaders and activists.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
This is one of my favorite quotes of all time. I have it posted up on the wall of my study.
We only have one life. We never know how much time we have left, so we’ve really got to make the most of it. Make the time to be with the people you love. Splash around in the rain! Throw a few snowballs. Step out of your comfort zone and try out something new. Eat something different and more exotic. Take a walk on the wild side … and savour every damn minute of it!
Life flies by so fast. We’ve got to grab on tight to its wings, so that we can enjoy every adventure along the way.
I’ll leave you with the lyrics and video of a song that encapsulates what I really mean. It’s a song by Lee Ann Womack, called “I Hope You Dance.” Now, I’m not an avid country music fan, but I absolutely love this song.
All of her words reflect exactly what I wish for you, dearest readers.
Thanks for stopping by.
Lyrics (partial) for I Hope You Dance (by Lee Ann Womack)
I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance!
I hope you dance!
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin’ might mean takin’ chances, but they’re worth takin’
Lovin’ might be a mistake, but it’s worth makin’
Don’t let some hellbent heart leave you bitter
When you come close to sellin’ out, reconsider
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance!
I hope you dance!
Images via congchurchexeter.org (binoculars) and thefifowife.com.au (dancer).
