What exactly does it mean to live “a life well-lived”. This is the grand question I have been asking myself lately. I have had occasion to use this term to describe people, usually post-humously. Typically, I am referring to the fact that the person had a full life: One surrounded by supportive family and friends, with the time and financial freedom to to pursue their most important and passionate interests – whether that interest was raising a family, creating art, helping people better themselves, building a business, etc. Somehow, the person left some sort of legacy behind, even if it is only in the form of the fond memories that will continue on in their family and friends.

When I think about the meaning of the term as it applies to my own life, I think in terms of wanting to find balance between working hard, spending time with friends and family, getting to travel and just plain have fun, and giving back through charitable activities.

The older I get, the more I am reminded that life can be very short and I don’t want to miss out on all the really good stuff either. And, I do feel that to whom much is given, much is expected. And I am certainly the beneficiary of good fortune, so it is important to me to also help others achieve their dreams.

One of the things I would like to explore with this writing thing, is just how to balance all those things. How do those people whom we admire, manage a life well-lived?