Live Your Life
In life, we often encounter individuals who touch our hearts in ways that are inexplicable, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. Joel Mason has enriched my life with joy, love, and unforgettable experiences. The journey of life can be uncertain and filled with trials, but my friend's approach to life serves as an inspiring example for us all. He lives his life embracing every moment with gratitude and purpose. That philosophy reminds us to cherish each day and to seek the beauty in all things, no matter how small.
I’ve long had this poem tucked away and I read and reflect on it some times but I’ve never shared it until recently. The poem is "Live Your Life" by Chief Tecumseh. It’s a timeless verse that urges us to live authentically and with integrity. It encourages us to pursue a life of purpose and service to our fellow human beings, recognizing that our actions have far-reaching consequences.
As we navigate the ups and downs of life, it is essential to maintain gratitude and humility. Give thanks for the simple joys of living, remind yourself that the source of happiness lies within ourselves. By cultivating gratitude, we can find contentment even in the face of adversity.
Perhaps most poignant is his perspective on death. Rather than fearing the inevitable, he encourages us to embrace the end of our journey with grace and bravery. Like a hero returning home, we should approach our final moments with dignity and a sense of fulfillment, knowing we lived our lives to the fullest.
In writing this, I hope to honour my good friend's profound wisdom, his generosity, and the light he has brought into the lives of many. I hope his example inspires us all to embrace life with love, gratitude, and purpose. For me, I’m rereading Chief Tecumseh's timeless poem and trying to carry its message in my heart, choosing to live life to the fullest and make a positive impact on the world.
As we all head out on our individual paths, let’s remember to live authentically, and embrace joy. Let’s be a force for good, respecting and cherishing the diversity that surrounds us. And when the time comes for us to leave this earth, maybe we do so with grace and the knowledge that we lived our lives to the fullest.
"Live your life so 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
