Historically
summer is a time to slow down. There are
pool parties, trips to the beach, and families get together. We simply relax.
Recently I found
an old Eddie Cantor quote and I love it:
“Slow down and
enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also
miss the sense of where you are going and why.”
You know me, I had to look at the history behind the man who
said this. Here’s just a part of what I
learned:
Eddie was born early in the year 1892 (no one knows the
exact date). At the age of three he lost
both parents and he was raised by his grandparents. He grew up in New York. Between 1931-1951 he
was a huge radio star.
At the outbreak of World War II, Cantor (like many other
stars) supported and entertained our troops all over the world.
Plus, he worked tirelessly with President Roosevelt and
created The March of Dimes.
I would challenge you to really consider his words. “Slow down and enjoy life…where are you going
and why.”
What are your summer opportunities? - Do
you have the ability to “pay it forward”?
- Could
you offer a break to a Mom and/or a Dad?
- Would
you be available to pick up groceries for someone who suffers in the heat?
- How
about keeping cold water available for others at your office?
Eddie looked for opportunities. He ran in a lot of arenas, he had great
impact, and his mindset bettered generations of people all over the world.
I know from reading Eddie’s biography, life was not
easy. He had a family. He and his wife lost a daughter in 1959 and
his wife died in 1962. It was said these
two events were devastating for Eddie.
Yet Eddie lived another two years dying on October 10, 1964;
I was twelve years old at the time. I remember Eddie's humor and I can still
see his face.
So I would say, yes take a break this summer, slow down,
enjoy life, have fun with your children and grandchildren, also consider your opportunities. What can you do to better
your world and make lasting impressions on others. What can you do to be an Eddie Cantor?
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