Last night, I couldn’t sleep. For whatever reason I kept seeing the face of my great Vietnamese friend, Quan, through the wee hours of the morning.

I had learned of the tragic news Quan was killed in an accident on the Mekong. What made my visions so unsettling was that Quan’s death was in March 2009.

Quan had an incredibly warm spirit and energy, and was always providing a giving hand to anyone and everyone who needed help in his hometown of Ho Chi Minh. I remember fondly our drinks at Yoko, the card and palm readings he would organise on my regular visits, the milkshakes, cookies, advice on where to buy the best shoes and get one’s nails done… Quan was always there – as advisor, tour guide and friend. I always thanked him for everything he did. Did he really understand how much he was appreciated? Did I tell him enough?

A little down today, I hadn’t put my finger on why until I got home to write about today’s bloody ripper. And then I realised it was the reminder of Quan and the fact that life is finite.

Thinking about Quan provided me with a reminder to live life with passion and fill it with positive action. I also reflected on how we need to ensure our values are upheld, life’s goals are attained, and that, in all our actions, we are passionate and committed to our happiness. Importantly, it also reminded me to not lose sight of three things that should always be constant.

Firstly – change. During difficult times, we need to give ourselves the opportunity to look at ourselves and determine how we can change to get through them. Remember what a pool of stagnant water looks like? If you are starting to look a little green around the edges with fear of moving with the current times, perhaps it is time to take some time out. What needs to be reconsidered? How can we mend some bridges? How can we do things a little differently to ensure we have a work/life balance? Change is one of the few constants in our lives that is certain, and needed.

We also need to consider our own values – who we are and what we want from life. If we are aren’t heading in the right direction, perhaps it is time to change tack and give ourselves the chance to get out of rough waters. To reevaluate what is important and ensure that these values are aligned with our goals. Do you know what makes every DNA cell in your body dance?

And thirdly – make sure you show appreciation for those who encourage, inspire, support and are simply there. Pick up the phone. Write a letter. Give them a hug. Honour their memory. It is also important that you make sure you show appreciation for the small things in your life that even when darkness descends, bring light into a gloomy day. Show appreciation for all the you bloody rippers!

I believe that in all of us, there is an innate desire to give. But never forget yourself.

Live passionately!

I’m still waiting for the husband and two children seen by the card reader. She also told me I’d live a happy and fulfilled life – every time I saw her. That, I can control.

You are thought of Quan. Thank you for the inspiration! x

you bloody ripper!