Carpe Diem!

What did I learn from him? Besides learning the importance of laughter in my life: CARPE DIEM, Latin for seize the day. The breathtaking scene from Dead Poets’ Society where Robin has the boys lean into the trophy case and then very quietly whispers “Carpe Diem, Seize the Day, boys!” (in which he played the teacher) really connected with me. Hearing the whispers of my ancestors became a reality and provided some inspiration for me.

We are all handed opportunities, our own unique gifts, and challenges. What do we do with our gifts? Do we use our gifts? Do we squander our gifts and fritter away our opportunities? Do we only pursue our favorite (or safest) opportunities? Or do we take risks and take on some things that scare us a little. If your dreams don’t scare you a little, they might not be big enough.

Do we really reach out to and help those in need? Or do we hold back, preferring to be safe and comfortable?

So many people struggling and suffering from mental illness and depression. I have been thrown into the fire many times trying to help people struggling with depression and mental illness. It hasn’t always been easy. But for some reason I feel like I’ve been called to try to be an optimistic ray of light to those living in darkness, to give hope to the hopeless, to help those who feel helpless. My help seems imperfect but I try to keep those hopes up for people who need it. Even if our help is imperfect, as Blessed Mother Teresa would say, “Do Good Anyway”.

Look for the joy or happiness in every moment and every opportunity. It may take a little work but NEVER EVER GIVE UP!

I would urge us all to reach out to someone who is marginalized, needy, lonely, depressed, or hurting. Be their friend, be of good cheer and share that ray of light with them.