Don’t Wait

“To truly live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” – Oscar Wilde

Have you ever received news that changed everything?

Perhaps it was the phone that rang, a knock at the door, or news at a doctor’s visit. Regardless, you knew life would never be the same afterwards.

A friend recently received such a call. This is his story. But the take away is for you.

Michael was in a meeting when his wife called. He glanced down, saw the name, and knew why she was calling. They had a disagreement that morning and he assumed she was calling to apologize. It could wait, he told himself.

A moment later there was another call from her.

Then this text: “Call me. It’s really important.”

Michael’s wife had gone for her regular physical that morning. Her doctor had found something suspicious and would need to do some tests. His wife was concerned it could be cancer.

Weeks of testing followed. Then waiting and praying and crying. Then, the diagnosis: Breast cancer. Stage 3. A journey toward the unknown began.

Michael and I discussed the treatment options, her prognosis, their kids, and next steps. I then asked how that phone call, that diagnosis, had changed his life.

He mentioned that he doesn’t ever look at his wife and expect that she’ll be there tomorrow. He hugs her tighter. Holds her closer. Forgives her faster. Loves her better. He shared that the little things were the source of almost all of their fights. And now, with something so big in front of them, they don’t get bogged down with the little things.

Finally, he said, “John, she’s losing her hair. She’s looking frail. She’s not as energetic as she used to be.” Then he added, “and I’ve never been as in love with her, amazed by her beauty, or as grateful for our time together.”

My friends, we frequently only wake up to the most precious gifts in our lives when there is the threat they could be taken away. [Tweet this.]

We frequently just exist through life rather than truly living, savoring and thriving. I encourage you not to wait.

You get one chance at this life on earth. You get one opportunity to make a significant difference for others, to be an awesome parent, spouse, child, coworker and friend.

This moment matters. Your life is a gift.

Don’t wait to fully live it. Start now.

This is your day. Live Inspired.

What is ONE precious gift that you are actively grateful for today? Share in the comments on below.