100 Things

I read an interesting article today. It's about an exec from southern Cali that moved to NYC and tragically watched from across the street as the second plane crashed into the World Trade Center in 2001. Soon after, he decided to move back to California for a more relaxed lifestyle near his family.

He then created a Web site dedicated to fun travel. And wrote a book titled, "100 Things to Do Before You Die..." They are all travel related events. He lived a wonderful, adventurous and passionate life. Until today. He died at the young age of 47 when he hit his head in a fall at his home.

In any case, as you can imagine, Running of the Bulls is on the list. Among a great many other items and fun events. (A cow chip throwing contest? I dunno about that one.) What I found more interesting, was reading through the reviews that people placed on the book. Some people were excited and had already completed such life affirming and soul encriching events, travels and more. Still, a great many others just didn't get it. Don't get it.

How can you not get it?! We have had similar reactions from our Pamplona trip. Some of my friends have talked about it. I've always had these perplexed questions to many of the adventures that I have undertaken over the years. Namely, "Why?!!" My answer is always, "Why not? ...Because! ...You MUST!" Some people just don't get it. I feel sorry for these people. There are too many of them. They are the majority, unfortunately. Maybe some have more wanderlust than others. Maybe some want more than the perfect lawn. But with each adventure, those that participate, those that live, walk further away from the sad majority that don't. That never wonder. That rarely wander.

When I pass from this earth (hopefully either leaving a better mark or none at all), I want my friends to throw a huge party with excessive dancing and drinking. I want my family to take a wonderful vacation in California (and spread my ashes into the Pacific Ocean). You can count on both being paid for from my estate.

Live each day to the fullest. Have fun with everything you do. Love the ones you love.

Grab life by the horns...and smack it on the ass! :)