There certainly is a lot going on in the HLA world, between the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics and patches, and Helping Hands, not to mention everything else going on in the busy lives of all the readers. We’re glad you’ve stopped by to take part in the inaugural Reading Raynbow discussion of The Last Lecture!
First, please only discuss the section or chapter of the book that is designated at the time. If you are like me, Julie and Melanie, it is hard to restrain yourself from reading ahead, but be sure not to post any “spoilers” for those individuals who have only read the pre-determined material. Second, we (Melanie, Julie and me, Ray) are only the guides on this literary journey. We’ll through out a question or two in our post, but you, dear readers, should post anything else you’d like to discuss with the community. The discussion path will follow your lead.
12 comments:
Can we only discuss Chapter 1 or Section I (Ch. 1-3)? I don't want to be a rule breaker.
As far as his and Jai's struggle on whether or not Randy should do the series, I can certainly see both sides. He had an awesome opportunity to leave a bigger legacy than just a video tape in his home though and I for one am glad that I was able to benefit from it as well as his children will someday.
Section 1 - good question, Cheryl.
Additional question ... not only what do you think ... but:
1. If you were in his shoes - what would you choose?
2. If you were in Jai's shoes - which would you support?
At first, I sided with Jai on this one. I felt that with the limited time that he was given, he should be at home enjoying his family. Especially, because it was Jai's birthday (if I remember correctly)...and maybe their last together.
However, now that I look back on all that he was able to accomplish...how many people he touched, how many eyes he opened, etc. I think it was the right decision. What's most important is the words of wisdom and that ever lasting image in both print and video of himself for his wife and kids.
I credit Jai in supporting her husband. If I were her, I don't know that I'd be able to give up my own selfish needs in a time like that.
If I were his wife, I can see the importance of him being gone on her last birthday they would share together.... but does the actual day matter, versus celebrating the event of her birthday on or near the exact day?
He seemed so excited in his writing that he had figured out what his lecture would be... just as in any other time she supported him, wouldn't she with this last lecture?
He also seemed to be a multi tasker, or be able to do many things well... it didn't seem to me during this first chapter that he was going into seclusion and not give of himself to his family!
This is a dilema that I would not want to face, but if I was able to do the thing I loved best, and be with my family, and leave a part of me behind... I think I would want to do it all!!
If I were his wife I would understand because I may miss a birthday but he's going to miss out on a whole life. I know its easy being selfish its hard to sacrifice and truthfully birthdays aren't as important to me as closure would be....
OOPS! If I were in his shoes I would follow my heart.
I am a happier person that Randy did do the series. He touched my life as well as a million others
I agree with what many of you have said. It was important for him to bring closure to his professional life in a way that felt "right" to him and make him proud. We are whole people - husband, father, friend, colleague, mentor, and so much more.
As it turns out, his decision to follow his heart benefited the family in the end. His legacy will live on and hopefully it brings Jai and the kids financial security.
If can relate with his desire to communicate last messages to students and other university community members. It seemed like the right way to punctuate his career.
Through the first section, I kept wondering about Randy's children. Although they're quite young at this point in the book, how much do they understand about what is going on in their family.
- Melanie
Here's a question before our next discussion... In the case of death, would you prefer to know that you are dieing or would you rather just die without knowing?
I know I'd rather die without knowing it ... because I think I'd get so caught up in the prospect of dying, and trying to make sure I said and did all the things I wanted to say and do, that my last days would be stressful. However, for the sake of everyone I would leave behind, I think I'd rather know, so that they can know, and it would hopefully be a little easier for them to get through.
Excellent question, Cheryl!
Quick question: How often does the group move onto a new section?
As I stated on the HLA main page, I've been absent from the site for a long time. And I was really excited to see the Reading RAYnbow link.
I'm going to try to get a copy of the book (maybe this weekend) so I can join the conversation soon.
- Treye
Treye... If you cant get a copy of the book by the weekend (which shouldnt be a problem) I can mail you mine. I am finished with it.... Just leave me your address in email my email is
maureenperes@mac.com
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