Two Paths

I would like to share a very personal story about the power of unconditional positive regard. I recently stood next to the bed in the intensive care unit holding the swollen hand of my older brother. He was only 53 and he was dying. Alcohol, aspiration, and infection make a brutal combination. How did this happen? Why did our lives take such different paths? Watching death unfold has an amazing ability to create clarity. The truth of the matter is that we made choices that continued us down two separate paths. Yet, it was more than just our choices but our coaches and companions early in our lives that had an impact. When I was in High School I was fortunate enough to have several coaches who believed in me and did what great coaches - in sports and in life do - they listened. I can not remember a single word of advice but I do remember the power of their belief in me, their "unconditional positive regard" for me, and the wonderful feeling of simply being heard. Here is a core truth. Right now, this very second, someone feels as if they are all alone. That they have no one who believes in them and so, they no longer believe in themselves. I believe you have the power to listen and share unconditional positive regard...you can connect with at least one other human being in a positive way. I hope you do.