Episode 259: Thanksgiving Episode – Life Lessons from Rick Hall

Happy Thanksgiving, Friends!

Today’s Thanksgiving episode has been inspired by and dedicated to the life of my dear friend Rick Hall who unexpectedly passed away suddenly at the age of 54 a few weeks ago.  

If you’re a long-time listener of TOL, you may recall hearing Rick on episode 178 where we talked about Spring Cleaning under Quarantine (FYI: he secretly wanted to be my co-host!)

As I was preparing my annual Thanksgiving episode, I found myself reflecting on all of the things for which I am most grateful.  As I sat quietly on my back porch with a cup of coffee, I kept coming back to Rick; how he lived and the life lessons he taught me. As you read through this list, you’ll see there is not one mention of material things (although he did love his Converse collection!)  

So here goes…

1. Practice Gratitude-I made this a daily practice in 2018 and it has changed how I look at life. Even in our darkest moments, there is always something to be grateful for. You never know how much time you have left, so live every day with intention

• One practical tip: Change your language from “I have to” to ” I get to”

2. Be Present– One-One attention has become a priceless commodity. If you’ve ever tried to get someone’s attention when they are distracted, it’s a crappy feeling. On the flip side, when you give someone your undivided attention you are showing them that they matter.

• One practical tip: put your phone away when you are with others. If you need to be reachable for loved ones, let them know that in case of emergency to call, rather than text, because you won’t be looking at your phone for a while.

3. Prioritize people over things-especially during the holiday season, surround yourself with people who matter to you-it’s so much more fulfilling and life-giving than stuff.

• One practical tip: Don’t wait to have someone over until your home is “perfect”, memories are made between humans, not stuff.

4. Relationships Matter– We are built for community and connection.You never know the impact you’re going to have on someone else’s life. Which brings me to the next lesson…

5. Tell people that you love them-Rick ended every conversation with “love ya sis” and he meant it.  He also gave the best hugs. Sometimes our best form of communication is non-verbal. 

• One practical tip: If you’re not a mushy person, that’s ok-me either. Write someone a letter or send them a text-don’t ever assume that someone knows how much you care about them.
  

6. Live Selflessly- This doesn’t have to be epic. A small gesture like bringing someone a meal, or paying for someone’s coffee can have a ripple effect on your mood and those who you have impacted.

• One practical tip: Don’t add to your already full plate. Try incorporating small acts of service in your daily routine and watch what happens.
  
  

7. Be authentic-This is one of my core values. If people don’t love you for who you are, then they are not your people.

• One practical tip: Remember that we don’t always have to agree, but we can still love one another.

I hope that by sharing these life lessons with you, I can continue his legacy of kindness and generosity.  

Happy Thanksgiving!

XOXO-

Laurie

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