A friend from law school died this week in a tragic scuba diving accident. His youngest son had his 2-year-old party scheduled for yesterday. Now they are planning a funeral instead. He and his wife had a love that was incredibly obvious and deep.

This is not a blog about “hug your children” or “live like it’s your last day.”  This is about being contagious. My friend was a rare commodity – he was contagious.  I aspire to be like that.

From the moment I met him he was a positive influencer. Some people are just like that. They don’t complain much. They often are seen with a smile and they seem to genuinely enjoy life. They listen. They are contagious in their gifts of love, compassion and respect.

For this friend, life was not always easy. But I don’t think I ever had a conversation with him – even a tough one – where he didn’t come up with some big smile and find a way to twist the negative into positive.

Here are a few things that I’ll remember about him:

1. He was Genuine: When you are genuine and sincere you automatically become contagious. Truth and honesty are two qualities which define a person’s legacy. Be the person others can trust. Always, tell the truth – no matter how difficult. It might seem tough in the short-term but in the long-term you will find others are the same with you.
2.  He was Open and Loving: Love brings love. Being kind brings kindness. These are contagious. I try to keep a smile on my face when I’m running, working on my computer, driving my car, or even grocery shopping (which I won’t be doing too much in a few weeks …). When people see my smile – they smile back. Those that don’t – I smile harder. 🙂 
3. He had Respect for Everyone: My friend was respected by so many people. When you show respect, you get it back. Respect is never forgotten.  Make it your life’s goal to treat everyone with respect, honor, and dignity – even those that do not give it back to you. I’m a believer in Karma. When you’re gone, what will you be remembered for?
4. He Gave his Heart Generously: When we give of ourselves  we start a cycle of positivity and love. We receive the internal personal reward of peace, happiness, and harmony. But we give it out as well and that is contagious. The people we miss the most after they die are the ones that gave love unconditionally and without judgment.

I try not to have “life goals” I just try to be. But if I were to choose life goals, these would be at the top of my list.

I have a lot on my plate right now. My boys are leaving in days (not weeks). My friend has died at 51. And I’m about to celebrate another year on this amazing planet. Life’s totally interesting and unpredictable. Thankfully, we’re all in it together.

Be contagious.

XOXO