Two weeks ago, Whitlam died. When I heard the news, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up, and I couldnt see clearly because, tbh, I was crying a little. Whitlam made brave decisions that gave my family the chance to really thrive in Australia. He put societal progress ahead of personal success and Ive always thought that that was both fascinating and incredibly brave. Ever since he died, and partly also because of the people Ive been surrounded by, Ive been thinking about that Keating quote: we all get carried out in a box in the end, the only relevant question is whether the pall bearers will be crying - I dont know why exactly, but I think as someone who has lived a life of incredible privilege (because of the enormous dedication of those who came before me), the idea of doing things that really inspire and make the world better for others has always resonated with me. Ive loved this quote for years, but for the last few weeks its been banging around in my head even more than 1989 has. (that is, a lot) In the last month, Ive felt truly lucky to be surrounded by incredible friends and family whove reminded me of this. People whove reminded me that life is short, and you have to carpe the shit out of that diem. Or, as our people like to say: #yolo. Ive also been incredibly fortunate to witness complete strangers whose bravery has totally astounded me. People who are fighting deeply entrenched systemic misogyny, racism, and inequality, and yet still managing to confront it face on and lean in, as well as people who are just taking life by the horns and being great, big, ol legends as they do so. In short, I am so, so, so lucky, and I wanted to say thanks to a bunch of people whove given me that privilege. So - thanks - youre all amazing in my book - and Im so glad to have you in my life.
Posted on: Tue, 04 Nov 2014 13:53:48 +0000
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