Come alive

I just love this quote from African American author, theologian and civil rights leader, Howard Thurman: "Don't ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."

Isn't that wonderful? Think of those people you know—the ones to whom you're likely most drawn—who are filled with energy, passion and positivity. Don't you want to spend more time with people like that? Aren't you inspired and energized when you're with them?

When we spend time with complainers and people who sleepwalk through life, we go away drained of our energy. And it's so easy to get dragged down into that pit ourselves.

Another Thurman quote that pairs well with this one is: "There is something in every one of you that waits and listens for the sound of the genuine in yourself. It is the only true guide you will ever have. And if you cannot hear it, you will all of your life spend your days on the ends of strings that somebody else pulls."

So be authentic. Find your passion. Do it. Don't let others pull your strings or take you where you don't want to go. Savor life. Live each day to the fullest—being who you were meant to be and doing what you love.