Lessons from TEDx: Many Moments of Gratitude

Most of us have seen TED videos. Despite their short, 18-minute time limit and typically interesting content, they are often longer than our short attention spans will endure.  So, when friends encouraged me to attend TEDxColumbus: A Moment In Time – a local franchise of the larger TED event, I was interested but skeptical that it would keep me engaged all day long. My concerns were unfounded! The TEDx presentations on the widest variety of topics made me laugh, cry, cringe, tap my feet, empathize, learn, disagree, change my opinion, meditate a little and mostly just THINK, THINK, THINK! I have already marked my calendar for next year's event!

Trent Tipple was not dealt a fair hand! In this TEDx talk, he recounts a series of grave medical issues he has endured in his 39 years. The kindness and generosity of people has always been the linchpin to his survival. His story takes many unexpected and shocking turns, but throughout his talk his message is simple: it is important...essential...to thank those who have positively affected your life. "We live in a society that celebrates individual acomplishment and the truth is nobody has ever accomplished anything in this world without the help and input of others", he said. What are you waiting for?

Happy Thanksgiving to you and to all who deserve your gratitude!