Why we should eulogize the living | Walter Green | TEDxSanDiego
Vložit
- čas přidán 20. 09. 2023
- We all have people in our lives who’ve made a significant impact on us. So why do we wait until someone dies to honor them and to express our gratitude to them? Say It Now is a movement that inspires people to pay tribute to someone while they’re alive. We never again have to live with regret that comes from not expressing gratitude. This is the societal shift the world needs to live a more happier, more purposeful life. Say It Now. It’s often too late, but never too soon.
justsayitnow.org #TEDxSanDiego #TEDx #TEDtalk #TEDxSpeaker #gratitude #justsayitnow #sayitnow #livingtribute #livewithoutregret
Walter Green was Chairman/CEO of Harrison Conference Services for 25 years which became the nation’s largest conference center management company in the U.S. He has lectured at Wharton Graduate School of Business and is a contributor to Forbes and U.S. News and World Report.
Walter is the author of a bestselling book, This Is The Moment! How One Man’s Yearlong Journey Captured the Power of Extraordinary Gratitude.
He is actively involved with Reality Changers, a San Diego-based nonprofit that helps low-income youth become First-Generation College Students and is an active supporter of the Free the Children Organization (We.org). In 2017 Walter and his wife, Lola, funded We College’s School of Hospitality and Tourism which is the first “needs blind” college in Kenya.
Walter’s latest initiative is Say It Now, which is a gratitude movement inspiring people all over the world to pay tribute to those who've impacted them the most while they are still living, before it's too late. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx
My father died last December at the age of 87 as the result of an accident. At the time he was still actively running our family business.
Two months before, his church and the community honored him for his 50+ years of service to the surrounding community.
He was thrilled! I went home for the ceremony and we broadcasted it on Zoom for all those who could not attend.
While his death was difficult to deal with, it was made so much easier because we gave him his tribute while he was alive.
Hearing about celebrating life while you're still living it is refreshing. Who says you have to wait for a milestone birthday? I'm throwing a "life celebration" party this weekend for my closest friends!
agree with you
The part about celebrating life while the person is still here is profound. We need to shift our mindset from posthumous tributes to living acknowledgments. It's time to break the silence and express our appreciation.
Sometimes though, you don't realize what someone means to you until they're gone, until you see other people mourning and sharing stories.
That story about Denny... it got me. We need to cherish people while we can.
The idea of a living tribute is beautiful. We often wait until it's too late to tell people how much they mean to us. It's time to break that habit and start appreciating those around us.
Yes, sometimes there are so many things left unsaid it's tragic to think about and wonder how different things might be if you speak now
David Attenborough must be the first to get a living tribute, he is 97 years old and absolutely deserves to have a tribute while he is alive
The power of expressing gratitude for mental health is real. 'Say it now' could be a game-changer in destigmatizing emotions.
Yes, if I had learnt how to manage and voice my emotions and feelings towards people at a young age I think my life would have been very different
Doesn't matter HOW - it matters NOW + It's often TOO LATE, but never TOO SOON 💜
The bit about Danny and his party brought such a smile to my face. So glad he got to have that experience.
Same, such a beautiful story.
I agree 100% we should express our gratitude to the living rather than wait till they die and can't hear us.
I like the concept of "Say It Now." It's a call to action that we all need. We never know what tomorrow holds, and expressing our feelings today is a gift to both ourselves and the ones we care about.
Yes, as someone who has experienced the worst case of this, I can say how important it is
This is really well put, nicely done
Many of us have difficulty thinking the word love and saying it out loud...so saying it face to face to someone is daunting.
Expressing gratitude through a birthday party is such a unique concept. It adds a joyful twist to the traditional celebration of life events.
So important to appreciate the unsung heroes in our lives. Not just family and friends, but those mentors, teachers, and colleagues who quietly shape our journey.
This is a really good point, if anything it's people like that who should hear it more so
Like they're not obliged to us the way family and friends are.
This is a really good point, people in those roles don't technically owe us anything
@ChristineClegg This is so true, when you know they don't want anything from you other than to see you do your best, such a great feeling
@ElizabethVanderford Such a good point, it really strengthens those relationships
This resonates with me so much, especially because it's the people who are important _to you_ that you are giving the opportunity to express how important you are _to them_ like as if that's not going to strengthen the bond even more.
This is a really good point!
It's not just about strengthening bonds, but also about living with no regrets.
Sometimes, I worry that expressing too much gratitude might seem insincere. Anyone else feel this?
Not everyone's comfortable with expressing emotions, but it's definitely worth trying.
Totally resonate with this. It's a beautiful way to strengthen bonds.
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle of life and forget to appreciate the people around us. This talk serves as a wake-up call to prioritize meaningful connections and express our gratitude regularly! No one's ever going to be mad at you for telling them how great they are 🤣🤣
Gratitude is powerful, but this talk makes it seem easier than it is. Not everyone can express emotions freely.
I'm not crying, you're crying . This is such an important message.
🤣😅💖
Wow, Walter Green is an inspiration! His dedication to making a difference is amazing.
Walter's message is a game-changer! Imagine a world where we don't wait to say the important stuff.
Bring flowers while one is still alive. I have never seen a u- haul following a hearse, have you? The u- haul did not have flowers in it either.
Many families gather fighting over material things before and after funerals.
Time lost , a journey with love is not.
Thank you, Mr. Walter Green, reminding our world what is truly important. ❤️
Thrilled to hear 'say it now' is in classrooms. Teaching kids early about expressing gratitude could make a huge difference in terms of how they relate to one another
Honestly it could make a huge impact on society in general.
Such a cool movement! I think it would help increase their emotional intelligence as well
What a "doable" idea for anyone wanting to highlight someone special in their lives. I've got my hand up to say thank you to several people who've helped me relocate.
Hahaha yes people who help you move are the best kinds
This talk hit home. Just made a call to my mom to tell her how much she means to me. Thanks, Walter, for the nudge to do it now!
Life is short, and words have immense power. This talk reminded me of a dear friend I lost last year. Wish I had said more. Lesson learned - express your gratitude before it's too late.
I lost my father suddenly, and there are so many things I wish I had said. Your story encourages me to be more open with my feelings and not make this mistake again
i always thought it was weird to only say nice things at funerals. glad someone's addressing it!
Life is too short to hold back our feelings. Your talk encourages me to be more open and vulnerable, sharing my gratitude with those who have made a difference in my life.
What a legacy, 1,000,000 expressions of gratitude in a year!! Kudos to you for making that happen.
I have thought about this before - why wait until the person is dead and cannot hear the kind words?
The idea and motives behind this are so lovely. Especially the idea of a living tribute, and giving people the opportunity to let them know what you meant to them.
The most beautiful and powerful message that everyone can do in the world to show gratitude and think the people we love. Thank you Walter for this extraordinary talk!
Yeah this is definitely worth doing. I had a close friend who had stomach cancer and passed a lot sooner than anyone thought - I never got to say goodbye or tell them how much I loved them and it still upsets me.
The mention of technology enabling us to stay connected globally is interesting. It's true; we have the tools to express our feelings more easily than ever before.
Losing my brother suddenly made me realize how many unsaid things linger. Saying it now might be uncomfortable, but the regret of not saying it lasts forever.
This is so sad. Sending love and healing thoughts 💜💜
Very good talk to hear in these troubled times, Thanks Walter
I've always thought it's more powerful to celebrate life than mourn people once they're gone. Makes a lot of sense to celebrate them while they're still around.
Such a powerful and inspiring message. As someone who has lost quite a few folks this message is timely, important and a needed reminder to share the impact now than waiting! Thank you!
The pandemic really showcased the unpredictability of life. 'Say it now' feels more relevant than ever.
It's easy to take people for granted, this story inspires me to change that.
Especially when they've always been there, like family often are
It inspired me too 😊
I love this idea! I did something similar before my father passed. I asked a question about his original family that only he could answer. If I hadn't asked, when he passed, I would have never known the answer. It was a personal question. Now that I know the answer, it made everything in my life make sense!
This reminds me of a missed opportunity. I wish I had said certain things to a friend who passed away unexpectedly. Your story motivates me to not repeat that mistake in the future.
Walter Green is a remarkable man. I am lucky enough to know him and be touched by his wisdom. Everyone should see this talk! Thank you, Walter. 🥰
I think doing this could only have positive impacts on the relationships in your life. I highly doubt there's anyone who _doesn't_ want to hear about how grateful you are for them and all the cool stuff they did in their life that you think is amazing
I never realized how much we hold back until it's too late. This talk is a wake-up call. Thank you, Walter Green.
Such a heartwarming message! It reminds me to cherish my loved ones. Gratitude should never wait.
Agreed.
I think so too, I try to let my partner know everyday how much I care about them and it really strengthens our bond
helps, truth! @@StarPointExodus
Thank you for this!! So powerful!!
Well said! Acknowledgement of one another isn't done often enough. But when we do so or are on the end of it it's really special. Thank you
Thank you for interesting talk❤
Incredible message...wow! A true way to live with peace, zero regrets, and let the people in our lives know they matter to us before it's too late...and for the gift of gratitude and wellbeing given to both the Say It Now giver and the receiver!
This talk has inspired me to organise a living tribute for my father-in-law. He has a significant birthday coming up and he's cherished by many people. Thanks for the inspiration.
Aww that's so nice! I'm sure he'll appreciate it very much
Reminds me of the unforgettable celebration we threw for my grandma's 90th birthday. She got to hear all the love and appreciation. 🎉
Very clear tune of voice and I slowly slowly understand the word
I can increase my accent of listening by this videos thanku❤
Very true, you never know when it's going to be the last time you see someone. I think a lot of people have an experience like that
Yes, probably everyone.
*sigh* this is all too true. I wonder though if it's easier not knowing? I've been at someone's death bed and that was so, so difficult.
This is a stirring message and so powerfully explained. THANK YOU!
It really is!
I am beyond fortunate that Walter is one of my closest friends. He's an extraordinary human being. Say it Now will be an important part of a profoundly important legacy.
I've never really thought about expressing gratitude until now. Life is so unpredictable, and this talk made me realize how important it is to let people know they matter.
What do you mean? Like you've just never thought it was necessary or what?
@@jennick4311 Maybe they mean they've never thought about why it's important
@@jennick4311 I mean I've never thought about it before doing it, or thought about why it's important.
@@elaineclouston Yes this and also the planning it before hand. Normally when I'm with my loved ones the time we're having enjoying each other's company feels like enough for everyone to know they're loved
Such a powerful message that the world needs to hear and understand! I did a living tribute to my grandpa and he passed away a few weeks after. I’m glad I got to express my gratitude!
That's So Beautiful✨️
😊
Touched my heart . Just shared this with my entire family. We're planning a 'Say It Now' dinner!
That is super cute
This is powerful. This is everything in human relationships 🌻.
I don't know about everything but yeah it's pretty important
Thank you I will say it now ❤️
So motivating! This is such a great idea!!! Amazing!!!
Love this talk!!!❤❤
That was wonderful!!! I am going to go out and Say It Now!!!!
This is so amazing!!
Excellent idea
So much truth, good talk.
Beautiful sentiment that bears acting upon…right now!
What a powerful message and meaningful way to live. It is no wonder Lisa loves and respects you so much!
So, is this like a global gratitude movement? Count me in! Let's make expressing appreciation a trend that never goes out of style
Haha it very well could be
Thank you so much for bringing this into awareness!
That was actually really beautiful! Thanks.
This is so touching. I wish I had the courage to express my feelings like this but a lot of the time I don't really know how to put how I feel into words
I get what you mean, I think as men especially we're conditioned to not really explore our feelings let alone express them
Great
Very moving message. We love and miss your family. Thank you. ❤
I really hope this catches on... it should be normal to have people tell you how important you are to them - especially on your birthday - but I think for a lot of people we've been conditioned to feel that seeking those kinds of sentiments from people makes us conceited or like we're fishing for compliments. Hopefully that changes.
I hope so too. The regret that comes with never having the chance to let someone know how you feel is beyond awfuI
I get what you mean, there's a fine line between appreciation/gratitude and flattery
What a great speaker, and the topic was perfect for this time.
Yes I think a lot of people will resonate with it, however the practicalities of actually taking the advice might be difficult for some.
I think it's a great message for any time
Inspired by this talk I'm off to organise a "Celebration of Life" for myself as I've had some bad health news.
You mean so people can express their gratitude towards you?
Beautiful message from an elder of wisdom 💫
🔥🔥🔥
The power of technology to connect us globally is incredible! I love the idea of using it for a living tribute. Wondering if there's an app for that?
I'm sure there will be given time lol
This would be so great if it caught on, particularly for men. They shouldn't have to rely on those big nights out to pour out the feelings of love for one another
Yes!! So many times, especially in my youth, the only time I'd hear a 'love ya mate' or something along those lines was when everyone was very intoxicated. Not very healthy habits.
💯💯💯💯
🎉🎉💯👌
🎉🎉
❤
I think part of the reason why people are hesitant to express how much someone means to them is the fear that you don't mean the same thing to them. Don't have to worry about that when they're clead 😅
Haha! That is true but I think you'll find if you take the risk you have a lot more to gain than you do to lose.
I appreciate the sentiment, but what if the person you want to appreciate isn't really open to it? Fear of rejection is a tough barrier to overcome.
This is interesting because I've often wondered, is that expression of appreciation that comes after someone dies, or when they're on their death bed, is it for them or is it for us? Doing it before they pass makes me rethink how I feel about all of it.
Yeah I've thought about this too, especially the death bed stuff. They don't care lol they're outta here soon and they don't have the time to process whatever it is you're saying.
"Скажи - что ты думаешь о человеке пока он жив". А что, если я думаю о нëм плохое... Надо ли говорить это "сейчас"? 🤔🤗
We have pancake day why don't we have "I'm grateful for having you in my life" day?
Wonder how 'say it now' translates in different cultures and if the concept could be universally embraced...
Of course it could be universally embraced. Some cultures may have a more difficult time but ultimately it's love for one another at the core of the idea and everyone has that
Yeah I don't see why it wouldn't be? I suppose some cultures are a bit more stiff upper lip than others but love is definitely universal.
والله اخجل 😅😅
I thought it said "euthanize" and then I saw his last name was Green...
timing = 5:15. 'now is about the power of expressing gratitude when the person is alive.'. I can't grasp the meaning of this sentence clearly. Would it be possible to change the order of the words as following, or any other expression?
now when the person is alive is the time the power of expressing gratitude.
now, because that person is alive, we have the power to express our gratitude.
I think this is really subjective. I tell my people what they mean to me all the time because it's important to me for them to know they are valued.
This is interesting. Does it always mean the same thing to them, hearing it so often?
Am I the ONLY ONE who first read this title as “Why We Should Euthanize the Living”?? 😭😅
Interesting concept, but what about those of us who aren't great with words? Not everyone can express themselves so easily
This is a great point but you'd hope the people you care about would have the patience to bear with you while you found the words.
I think it's going to be pretty difficult for older generations to adapt to the "say it now" culture. All the people I know in that age bracket have a lot of trouble expressing their emotions.
Welp. It's only a matter of time before that's not an issue anymore...