The past several years, we have been in the process of completely re-evaluating our lives, both individually and as a couple. And then a friend shared this great quote with us by Harold Whitman: "Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."

Previously, we had been so focused on the things we were "supposed" to be doing in life and the things we "should" be doing…that we left little room for making sure that we were doing the things that brought us joy and made us come alive.

We were on our way to a rock concert. This has been a lifelong passion of ours that we often kept hush-hush because we have gotten a lot of comments telling us that we are crazy! Ever since we were both in elementary school, we had a huge passion for rock and roll…the classic stuff: The Stones, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac (Michelle would like to add Neil Diamond to the list, even though he doesn't qualify for the rock and roll category!). When we were both 13, we started going to concerts, fueling a passion that has only intensified as we continue to appreciate great classic music, some 25 years later.

And so one of the great things that makes us come alive is being up front at a classic rock concert, honoring rock legends that were instrumental in shaping rock and roll. Not in the seats off to the side or up high…but right up in front; not as observers, but as "participants."

"How can you spend so much money on a concert?" we hear, and "Why in the world would you see the same band twice?" And then our favorite, "Aren't you guys done yet?"

So, up until now we've been quiet about it. But recently a switch got flipped as we are finally beginning to understand the importance of embracing what brings us joy.

We were sitting in the front row, dancing and shouting and paying our very first tribute to the legendary rock band: The Who. Never before have we been so in the moment, so full of joy, so in love with life, and so grateful for being alive. We were fully present, in our bodies, connecting with our spirits in the most joyous way possible. Our smiles were way too big for our faces, and our auras had to be filling the arena all the way up to the top.

We were particularly spellbound by the performance of songwriter and guitarist, Pete Townshend (photo above). He has now become a new model for us in living with unrestrained passion. When he's on stage with his guitar, he is the quintessential example of fully living life and giving it everything he's got. We admire him immensely as he is right in line with our philosophy of "Life is short; get in the game and play hard!"

To someone who doesn't have a passion for classic rock, or concerts, they might not understand our passion. And some of the people who love us the most, do think we're crazy! But that's okay. As long as we are following something that brings us joy and makes us come alive, we feel happier and more fulfilled. Claiming our passion has truly been a spiritual experience for us…celebrating joy, abundance, and aliveness. The bottom line is that everyone has something that makes them come alive, and it is up to each of us to make sure we honor that "something."

And since our goal is to serve others by empowering them to feel joy in their lives, we commit to continuously being on our "Quest for Joy" like the brochure at the rest stop stated. We would be falling up short to our responsibilities and purpose in life if we did not do this. We are supposed to feel joy. We are meant to experience joy in life. Joy is not to be withheld!

What makes YOU come alive and brings YOU joy? What provides a spiritual experience for you, where you completely lose yourself? Is it writing, jogging, scrapbooking, time in nature, singing, reading novels, conversation with good friends, watching Star Trek? We all have things that do it for us. Whatever it is for you, acknowledge it, and be proud of it. As that inspirational quote said, "…what the world needs is people who have come alive." We can all find ways of increasing our aliveness.

Take a moment right now to get in touch with those things that you love; those things that make you come alive. Print and complete the "Love to Do" assessment.

And then commit to making your top picks a priority.

We all know that life is short, and we often have the best intentions for ourselves. But we get busy, and of course, there's always tomorrow. Keep this assessment handy and add to it every time you're inspired, and subtract from it as you evolve and grow. But never stop thinking about the things you love to do and the things that bring you joy. And love yourself enough to find the time and courage to follow up with those things. As you reflect back on your life in the future, you'll be very grateful you did.

Take your first step toward making joy a priority in your life! Sign-up now for an Ultimate Living Jump-Start to close the gap between where you are now and where you want to be!

Michelle & Bill Stimpson can be reached through their website at www.lifeshinecoaching.com.

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