I was watching the reality show, Deadliest Catch, the day before yesterday. This tribute episode featured Captain Phil Harris, who died in February of this year. A man who lived life to the fullest – and then some! – Captain Harris made a number of interesting statements, one of which I would like to share with you today.
Captain Harris was speaking about his father, who like him was Captain of a fishing boat in the Bering Sea. He admired his father, Grant, tremendously and recalled a statement that his father made while he was a young man: “You can watch things happen, make things happen or wonder what the hell happened.” Phil said (and I paraphrase) “I wasn’t sure what I needed to do, but I knew for sure that I didn’t want to fall in the last category.”
Life is too short to sit idly as a spectator. Vicarious fulfillment will never match the intensity and depth of true fulfillment. While recklessness is not advisable, decent boldness is. You cannot expect others to live your life for you. Your decisions are your decisions. Others can make suggestions, give advice, share experience, etc., but your decisions are ultimately your decisions.
You can grace the world with your mind, your body and your heart. You can be yourself and live life to the fullest. Never believe anyone who tells you that you cannot.
Gregory Hake 
thanks for this . your suggestion is really remarkable..
live to the fullest
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By recognizing and applying the principles found in your posts, one doesn’t have to wonder “what the hell happened.” The decision IS mine. Great post!
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My brother used to be an Alaskan Fisherman (not King Crab fisherman, but still had a lot of risky experiences out there) so although I don’t have cable, I was aware of this tv show yet unaware that Cpt. Harris died. Thanks for passing on some of his beliefs!
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I am definetly a person who wants to have exiting life experiences, but I don’t want to do it in a way that doesn’t matter or make a difference. True fulfillment comes only as your life energy is turned to something that really is impactful. It is true that you can make your own decisions, but it’s also true that the right decision might not be comfortable or easy. You can, however, be sure that it will be fulfilling. Thanks!
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Thanks for sending out this great message!!
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“decent boldness” – what a great description of what is required!
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This is so liberating to hear. I think so often we live in a box our own making – whether because of our own limitations or accepting the limitations of others. Although we may have certain restrictions in our lives (i.e. health, age, understanding) that could prevent us from doing certain things, I’d bet that 90% of the box is in our imagination. Your thoughts of living life to the fullest as a participant and not as a spectator are so perfect. Thank you.
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my decisions are mine to make – that is the ultimate “reality” – wonderful reminder
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Great points! Let’s get out there and participate!
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