The sun was setting over California as I stepped into the hospital room, my heart heavy with a mix of anticipation and sorrow. Over 40 years had passed since I last saw my father, and the weight of those lost years pressed down on me. My sister, Mary, had called with the news that our father was in hospice care, battling stage 4 cancer. Time, it seemed, was running out.
As I approached his bed, our eyes met, and in that instant, decades of distance and misunderstandings melted away. The frail man before me, once a towering figure in my memories, reached out, and our hands intertwined. Words were exchanged, some filled with regret, others with love. He asked for my forgiveness, and in a voice choked with emotion, he told me how proud he was of the person I had become. Those words, simple yet profound, were a balm to old wounds.
Tragically, our reunion was short-lived. He passed away shortly after, leaving me with a whirlwind of emotions. But amidst the grief, a revelation emerged, one that has since shaped my perspective on life: the power of “one.”
In my book, Living A Strong Life, I delve into the philosophy of Living Strong—a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of resilience, purpose, and embracing every moment. That one moment with my father was a testament to this philosophy. It wasn’t just about closure or reconciliation; it was about Living Strong, recognizing the weight and significance of every interaction, every word, every gesture.
Life is unpredictable, but Living Strong teaches us to navigate its uncertainties with grace and courage. We often operate under the assumption that there will always be another chance, another day, another moment. But the truth is, any moment might be the last in one’s life. And it’s these singular moments, imbued with the spirit of Living Strong, that hold the power to change, heal, and define our existence.
Movies and books transport us to different realms, but sometimes, it’s that one story that lingers, reshaping our perspectives and touching the very core of our souls. It might offer solace in trying times, challenge our long-held beliefs, or simply remind us of the beauty of human connection.
In the myriad interactions we navigate daily, there’s always that one conversation that stands out. It could be a brief chat that offers fresh insights, a deep heart-to-heart that fortifies bonds, or even a fleeting exchange that leaves an indelible mark on our psyche.
But beyond all these, there’s the undeniable power of one person—you, me, all of us. Each individual has the potential to be that beacon of change for another. Whether it’s through a kind gesture, sage advice, or simply being present, our actions, no matter how seemingly small, can create ripples of positive change.
In our relentless pursuit of more—more likes, more followers, more acquisitions—I urge all of us to pause, reflect on the Living Strong philosophy, and appreciate the power of one. It’s these singular moments, gestures, and connections that truly shape our memories, define our lives, and have the potential to transform the world around us.
Share Your Story
I’d love to hear from you. What’s your “one”? A book, a cherished memory, a poignant quote, a cherished photograph? Or perhaps a time when you were that “one person” for someone else?
Share your stories in the comments below, and let’s celebrate the beauty and power of singular moments and acts together, always Living Strong.
