You may remember my January blog post about SoulPancake, one of the most uplifting and inspiring initiatives I have ever seen. SoulPancake was founded in 2008 by actor Rainn Wilson and his friends, Joshua Homnick and Devon Gundry. As described on their website, "SoulPancake sprang out of their desire to create a space where people from all walks of life could discuss and question what it means to be human - a place to wrestle with the spiritual, philosophical, and creative journey that is life" (FAQ).
One of my favorite SoulPancake programs is "My Last Days." Each episode focuses on one individual who is dying and gives him or her the platform to express thoughts, feelings, and hopes for the world they are leaving behind.
For school counselors, these videos can be a resource for families struggling with illness and grief. Also, they can help students, staff, and parents reflect on what's important in their own lives and how they want to be remembered.
While certainly difficult to watch, the overall message is about hope and love. In their final days, these individuals are able to make a profound impact on all who listen. I know I have taken the time to reflect on my own life after watching these videos and I hope that by doing so, I am able to make a more positive impact on the world around me. We never know which days will be our last, so we must live each day with purpose.
