A LifeWorks Moment

Who doesn't like reading a really good book, article, column, etc. by a outstanding writer. But for me there are times I'd rather read about the author and get to know who that person is. Those times and experiences that have made them the person they are and how those times influence how they interact with people. I guess we could call it the "pull back the curtain" and "sneak a peek" approach in getting to know them. I mean really everyone likes reading a personal story about someone else!

So today I start a column with my LifeWorks blog called "Snapshot". This column will be about a time in my personal life that had an affect on who I am today and will offer you a peek behind the curtain of my life. It could be an incident that happened, a person that I have known, something funny, something sad. My hope is whatever is written will help you get to know me. That "Snapshots" will be fun to read and offer a bit of wisdom.

I had the great fortune in my first profession of my life to be a minister. That surprises many people...not sure if that's a good or bad thing come to think of it. Being in the ministry provided me tons of experiences that most people will never have. There were so many 'life' moments that occurred at any time that quoting the Boy Scouts, you just had to "be prepared".

When I was 22 years old, I got my first call that a gentleman was at the local hospital and close to dying. If I remember correctly he was a retired farmer in his 80's. As I entered his darkened hospital room, he opened his eyes and I introduced myself and who I was. I told him that a family member had asked me to visit him. He was very close to checking out and leaving this earth. I said all the right things that I had been taught to say at a moment like this. I was caring, called him by his first name, did my best to offer comfort. Not bad for a 22 year old. The old man listened intently and looked me straight in the eye. It may sound funny but I was pretty proud of myself. I mean after all I'm a 22 year old! What don't you know at that age. But then the tables were turned. I'll never forget that my hands were on the bed railing. He took his withered hand and tightly squeezed my hand and looked at me and said, "Do something I can't go yet!" There was a real sense of urgency and a hint of panic in his voice. He repeated himself, "Boy do something I'm not ready and I can't go yet." My first thought was I don't remember being in class and going over this particular issue! I had no answer that would satisfy him. Talk about feeling inadequate. The look in his eyes is something I've not forgotten...he was serious in his request. And it was one I couldn't do anything about.

Later that day the old farmer passed away. Not sure if he got things worked out the way he wanted it or not. My guess is he didn't.

What did I learn? Several things that I share with people in many of my presentations. First of all today is all you have... period. No one and I do mean no one has a guarantee they will be here tomorrow. We're all one heart beat from the end. Second, whatever needs to be resolved with another person should be attempted as soon as possible. I understand it takes two to resolve an "issue" but have the knowledge that you tried. Third, whatever you do have no regrets at the end of your way. And finally, live your life to fullest...there are no dress rehersals.