How Did You Die?
Now, you kids are probably saying to yourself, “Now, I’m gonna go out, and I’m gonna get the world by the tail, and wrap it around and put it in my pocket!!” Well, I’m here to tell you that you’re probably gonna find out, as you go out there, that you’re not gonna amount to Jack Squat!! You’re gonna end up eating a steady diet of government cheese, and living in a van down by the river!
Matt Foley (played by Chris Farley)
Saturday Night Live, May 8, 1993
Perhaps that’s not the best quote with which to start the Motivation category, but Chris Farley’s skits as Matt Foley were usually some funny bits. And, what’s more motivational than some humor? Who did you expect me to quote? Tony Robbins? Puh-lease.
And, you’re probably wondering what kind of title “How Did You Die?” is for a motivational post as well. It is the title of a poem by Edmund Vance Cooke, first published in 1903, I believe. Despite the title, it is quite an inspirational piece. I present it here for your own edification and without further commentary.
How Did You Die?
Did you tackle the trouble that came your way
With a resolute heart and cheerful?
Or hide your face from the light of day
With a craven soul and fearful?
Oh, a trouble’s a ton, or a trouble’s an ounce,
Or a trouble is what you make it,
And it isn’t the fact that you’re hurt that counts,
But only how did you take it?
You are beaten to earth? Well, well, what’s that?
Come up with a smiling face.
It’s nothing against you to fall down flat,
But to lie there–that’s disgrace.
The harder you’re thrown, why, the higher you bounce;
Be proud of your blackened eye!
It isn’t the fact that you’re licked that counts;
It’s how did you fight–and why?
And though you be done to the death, what then?
If you battled the best you could,
If you played your part in the world of men,
Why, the Critic will call it good.
Death comes with a crawl, or comes with a pounce,
And whether he’s slow or spry,
It isn’t the fact that you’re dead that counts,
But only how did you die?
Edmund Vance Cooke
More? You want more? Be patient!
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