the width of life

Like many tragedies, the recent devastating loss of 9 lives brings us back to our own experiences of both the fragility and fullness of life. 

I came across this quote about “the width of life” from Diane Ackerman years ago and often share it when I speak to Make-A-Wish audiences because it’s true; none of us truly know how much time we have here on earth but we do have a reasonable amount of freedom to define and cultivate the quality of that time for ourselves.

For me, the quality of my life has always been defined by the people in it and the ways in which my relationships challenge and support me. So today, I recommit myself to not losing focus on the fullness of my life as the days rush by and I give thanks to the people I love.

And to you: You matter to the people that knew you “then” and know you now. Your gifts and talents and sense of humor and attention and intelligence and point of view add something to the world that wouldn’t be there otherwise. Please also tell the people that add to the fullness of your life that they matter to you.

I wish you the love you deserve and the meaning that comes from living into the width of your life. XO