The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
The author of this work is a Computer Science professor from Carnegie Mellon University who has been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. His passion for life is evident as he opens the door to his psyche through the pages of this book in preparation for his “last lecture.�
“What makes me unique?â€? He shares, “Cancer doesn’t make me unique.â€? There is no use arguing that. More than 37,000 Americans a year are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer alone. I thought hard about how I defined myself: as a teacher, a computer scientist, a husband, a father, a son, a friend, a brother, a mentor to my students. Those were all roles a valued. But did any of those roles really set me apart?â€? In preparing for his lecture, Professor Pausch pondered, “What do I alone, truly have to offer?â€?Â
The author views his uniqueness stemming from the specifics of all the dreams that define his forty-six years of life. Randy Pausch developed his impassioned lecture hoping that it might help others find a path to fulfilling their own dreams. The author shares both childhood memories as well as defining moments of adulthood. The photographs sprinkled through the book are heart warming and the selections reveal what matters to this special individual.
I was deeply moved while reading Randy’s life experience. This appears to be due in part to the many fascinating individuals Randy has encountered throughout his life adventure. He does not share wisdom of Hollywood celebrities, Heads of State, or CEOs, but rather chronicles how determination, openess to others and commitment to dreams can set one apart and create a full life.
The Last Lecture held my attention even though I had seen Randy Paunch’s Last Lecture on YouTube and viewed him and his devoted wife, Jai, on television during an episode of 20/20.    I found personal inspiration in reading this man’s written words. I think you may too.Â