#8: The Living Eulogy (Friday, February 23)

We all know someone who, since they've entered our lives, it's been changed for the better. More than likely, it's a family member or a significant other. Family members and significant others are likely choices, but what about the people who've helped to make a positive change on your life who aren't related to you and who have absolutely nothing to gain from helping you be the best person you can be? Many times we wait until the person is no longer around to articulate how much they've impacted our lives...why not give them a living eulogy?

The Idea: Think of someone (other than parents and significant others) who has helped to make you the person you are today. When you've identified that person, give them a call, send them an email, a card or some other communication telling them exactly how they've impacted your life.

The Cost: Your time

The Benefit: There are several:

1) If you've never told this person before, you'll have an opportunity to let him/her know how much they mean to you.

2) If you have expressed these feelings, it will be an unexpected and pleasant reminder.

3) Life is a chain. If you have impacted someone's life in a positive way, it's partly because of the influence of someone who has done the same for you.

Testimonial: I have many people who've helped me become the person I am today, but my most recent and impactful transformations I credit to my former boss, mentor, friend, and sometimes substitute mother, Digna.

Digna is one of the most genuine, positive and uplifting people I know. She always is willing to lend an ear, a hand - even when she's dealing with her own problems. She urges me to dig deep and embrace my talents and strengths, some of which I didn't even know I had. A couple years ago, Digna sat me down and told me that my attitude was my barrier to success. She was right; once I changed my attitude, I changed my world. With her guidance, I've come a loooooooong way.

Her constant encouragement, objective advice and the selfless, unconditional way she gives of herself makes her truly an angel on earth. I consider myself truly blessed to have her as a part of my life.

"You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give."

-Winston Churchill; also one of Digna's favorite quotes

Let me know what you think of this Good Friday idea...