Get Out There

While doing some reading on the War of 1812 (200 year anniversary), I stumbled upon an old poem, my favorite by far, from Chief Tecumseh, I had posted on my bedroom door growing up. It’s message is everlasting and insightful I thought to share with you all:

So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart. Trouble no one about their religion;respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.

Always give a word or a sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend, even a stranger, when in a lonely place. Show respect to all people and grovel to none.

When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in yourself. Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools and robs the spirit of its vision.

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.

Chief Tecumseh

(Source: sayhellotosunnydays, via 2und40)

If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over? -John Wooden

In the world you may be but one, but to me you are the world.