May your 2010 be Zen...
For many, the challenging economic turn in September 2008 cast a pall over 2009. It's been sobering. To put it nicely. Such times challenge us all to find ways to lead our lives differently yet still live well. We may end up re-thinking what we mean by "living well." But in the end, if a good life is more than ease and convenience, then we can continue to live well even when uncertain times refuse to give up so easily.
While pondering how I might fare myself under more than difficult moments, I was reminded of someone who lived with enormous style when faced with an impossible situation. While that moment was brief. His choice left an indelible image of "real style" in my mind.
This is a very short story that took place in a far off land (really!) ... Australia. Should I tell you how many years ago?
His last act showed discipline, control and grace under extreme pressure. He lived well.
An experienced skydiver was keeping thousands of heads turned skyward and mouths agape as he peformed during an airshow back in the 1970's. The details as to why his canopy didn't open that day or why his reserve failed are irrelevant to the story save knowing neither worked that day. The significant point was that it became clear, even from the ground, that there was a moment of realization that no matter what he did, he was going to "spear in" as we called it in those days.
His response? A shout, curse or scream? Just a slight pause before he resumed another series of skilled maneuvers in the air. Yes he hit the ground going over 100 mph. He died. But his final moments touched each of the thousands watching with a quiet style and strength that most would remember to this day as clearly as then. He lived, and lives on, with real style. He lived well.
Karen Smith
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