"Get busy living, or get busy dying"

Greeting Friends~

Those closest to me know that the Shawshank Redemption, with Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, is one of my favorite movies. I am sure that I've watched this film at least 100 times. What is it that appeals to me so much about this movie? I think it's the amount of symbolism, which is scattered throughout the movie, and how it relates to my life.

Today's blog title was a line spoken by Tim Robbin's character, Andy Dufresne (Du-frane). While there are MANY lines that I truly love in the story, this is one of my favorites.

What is it about this line in particular that causes so much emotion in me?

"Get busy living, or get busy dying."  Seven simple words...short, sweet and to the point...kind of like carpe diem....seize the day. The idea appeals to me. Live or die. Make the choice.

For the first 27 years of my life... I was selfish... immature... irresponsible... I could go on but there's not enough space on this blog to list all of my transgressions, character flaws and bad behaviors so I'll leave it at that. I have many things to cherish during this time, such as a very patient, forgiving, supportive wife, parents who were understanding and non-judgmental, and children who proved they inherited the best of me. Suffice it to say, in all other things, I was a total putz.

Most of you didn't know me then and may have a hard time believing what I am telling you. Don't. I could use all of the profanities that I am known to utter...strung into one long colossal curse word...and it would not even come close to being an adequate adjective... to summarize what a lousy human being I was. You don't have to believe it but you should take my word for it.

"Get busy living, or get busy dying."  My life was at that point. I had to figure out how I wanted to live or if, by continuing my destructive behavior,  I wanted to die. Not die as in suicide...croak...the Big Finito... but die as in a slow downhill slide, from then, until the time of my death, never having done much to improve myself or the world.

So, I decided to get busy living and, for the majority of the last 25 years, that's what I've done. Sure, I've had my bad times mixed in, but all in all, I got busy living.

It is my desire that each of us choose to "get busy living". If you haven't, now is the time. If you need help, reach out. You are not in this alone. I promise that I will help you. You have my word.

Inspiration of the Day

Seek out that particular mental attribute which makes you feel most deeply and vitally alive, along with which comes the inner voice which says, "This is the real me," and when you have found that attitude, follow it. -William James, 1842-1910, American Psychologist, Professor, Author

Recipe of the Day

My apologies to all you broccoli haters. Here is a dish that should tickle your taste buds. I think I'll add mushrooms and olives.

http://www.recipezaar.com/Broccoli-Chicken-Dijon-south-Beach-Diet-120351

Let me leave you with one additional quote from the movie...

[In a letter] "Dear Red, If you're reading this, you've gotten out. And if you've come this far, maybe you're willing to come a little further. You remember the name of the town, don't you? I could use a good man to help me get my project on wheels. I'll keep an eye out for you and the chessboard ready. Remember, Red. Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies. I will be hoping that this letter finds you, and finds you well. Your friend, Andy".

Remember Travelers, "if you've come this far, maybe you're willing to come a little further. Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies." Please continue to travel with me on our journey, One Step at a Time.
 
I love this movie so much that I just can't resist one last quote!
 
"And, it's Fat Ass, by a nose!"
 
Happy Trails!