I attended the memorial service Saturday for an inspiring man, my former co-worker and mentor Chris.
Though I worked with Chris over 10 years ago, and only directly for 14 months, his impact on my life was a lasting one. Judging from the standing room only crowd at the service, it’s apparent to me he impacted many others in the same way.
I wanted to share the lessons I learned in order to keep Chris’s legacy alive and to offer a window into amazing man’s life.
Engage people where they are at
Share your stories
Ask about and Listen to other’s stories
You can’t control whether your life is an epic novel or a short story. Make every day count.
Look for the best in others
Know where you’re going
Have a realistic understanding of who you are
Live life full out and with no regrets
Always keep the faith
Thanks for sharing your life’s purpose with me Chris. I’m a better man and a better person for having met you. Thoughts of you will never be far from my heart.
{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }
Phil, great way to honour the legacy of your friend. Everyone has a story and a lesson to share… it is clear that Chris did his part in doing so. RIP Chris.
Thanks Mick! Chris rocked, and I’m so glad he was able to share his story with me…and now with you.
You are too right! There are so many things we can learn from the people that come into our lives – no matter how short of a time they spend there.
What an inspiration!
Shannon – I was, and continue to be, inspired by Chris. He’s a permanent part of every presentation I give about Making it Great! from a few weeks ago forward.
Thanks for sharing your lessons learned. Sounds like your friend knew how to live. Made my day.
Craig – Chris knew how to live for sure! So glad you could share a little of him with me. Reading your comment made MY day. Thanks!
Thanks for sharing your friend with us, Phil.
“Epic novel or short story” – I really like that line. As with your friend, short stories can make just as much, and even more, impact.
George – It’s always a blessing to see your smiling comments. Thanks for sharing them, and impacting me!
I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your friend, Phil. Would that we all could leave the kind of legacy that he did!
Thanks Tammy! Everyone CAN leave the legacy Chris did…if they stay focused to their purpose and live a real life. Thanks for sharing your real life with me!
Phil, I want to steal this post. Serious reminder of what’s important versus what’s flashy or fashionable.
Sorry for your loss. Sending hugs.
Cheers and thanks for making IT great.
Todd
Please steal it. Would do my heart good, and Chris’ legacy being shared with more people is a VERY good thing, in my opinion.
Phil,
I am very sorry for the loss of your mentor and friend. Thank you for sharing this story and what you’ve learned on leaving a legacy.
Thanks for sharing this inspiring story, Phil! It sounds like Chris was a man ahead of his time. So many of us say this stuff all the time – you remind us all to not just say it but actually live it!
Phil, I’m seeing your great article after I’ve sent one to my subscribers about the same subject two weeks ago. I could have added some of your insights. lol. Thanks for sharing this is good.
Thanks for the GREAT post and for remembering Chris. He was a great guy and impacted so many of us in a big, positive way.
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