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Home About Randy Pausch About Jeffrey Zaslow About the book Online extras Message boards Pancreatic cancer research Carnegie Mellon University Media coverage Watch The Last Lecture

How have you been influenced by reading the book or watching the lecture? What message would you like to share with others who’ve been touched by Randy and his story?

November 29th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
I just finished reading The Last Lecture and loved it. What an inspiring tale. I give my best wishes to Randy's family. xoxo
Stephanie

November 29th, 2009 at 7:08 am
i was watchin THE LAST LECTURE , before year first time, and before three days i find book in store and read for less than day . there is no words to describe what power and positive vibe book share with people who read , but also with people who heard about book from readers. i had problems with my healt from my childhood and had 13 surgery on my back . and i really believe in every word that i read in this book . I am 27 now and i reaaly know that is possible that ur childhood dreams can be true. most of mine is. and every day i live like i never been sick and try to upgrade myself on every level and to help people around me. i am so grateful on this treasure wich Randy leaves to his children and familly and to all the world. P.S. Sorry for my bad E nglish
Sasha

November 29th, 2009 at 5:45 am
Beim durchlesen des Buches, habe ich die Passagen in denen R. Pausch seinen Erziehungsstil beschrieb, ganz aufmerksam gelesen fast schon aufsaugend.Ich hoffe das ich an seine Worte denken werde,wenn ich mal Mama bin. Ich habe Ihn die ganze Zeit beim Lesen bewundert und dies tue ich noch immer. Aus Deutschland Veronika Frank
Veronika Frank

November 28th, 2009 at 6:29 am
I just want to say ‘Thank you’.
W Szymanski

November 26th, 2009 at 2:12 am
After watching The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, I feel inspired. It is really refreshing to learn about Randy who chose to keep a positive attitude and continue to teach people even after learning he was terminally ill. Randy’s message will live on and will surely have an effect on many lives. “I’m dying and I’m having fun…and I’m going to keep having fun every day I have left…”His advice and message are extremely powerful. After watching the lecture I viewed more footage and coverage including the interview with Diane Sawyer. I was moved to tears, but they were tears of joy. Randy's story makes me want to work harder to reach my goals and work towards my dreams. I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn about Randy. I wish his wife and family well.
Alma Camera

November 25th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I have not read this book yet, and I am not sure if I can just yet. I just lost my Anatomy proffessor to a vary short and sudden battel with brain cancer. It started on the 14th of April and he passed away on July 24th 2009. He was the most amazing man and teacher you could ever hope for. He was not just my teacher but we became friends after I completed his class. I will read this book in time. If I only knew the last lecture would be his last I would never have left. I would keep him there. I have saved all of his lectures on my computer, and listen to them often. It is sad to see that Randy passed away one year and one day before I lost my proffessor to cancer. To the family of Randy, you are all in my prayers.. Krystal
Krystal Spada

November 25th, 2009 at 9:53 am
I've just got the book for some hours and finished half. The reason I'm not continue reading is I want to stop for a while and think about it. I meant think about every short parts of the book. I know that the book was published for at least a year but if one of my friends didn't tell me, I would missed it and it would be a mistake of my life. Luckily, I got it and read it half. I really want to contact with Mr. Ranny Pausch but I know it's impossible now. So sorry about that. This book will change my life, somehow. And I just wanna say thanks to him.. I don't know if his wife, Jai will read these writings, but I hope every peaceful things will come to her, her children and her family. Hope you all be strong.. I got some dreams and I think I should finish them now.. I didn't mean kill them but let them come true. Thanks. Rest in peace, Randy Pausch. -Land-
Land

November 24th, 2009 at 1:14 am
There are very few people as inspirational as Dr. Randy Pausch. The stories and experiences he shared during The Last Lecture were so very hopeful and motivating. He has given me and others the eyes to see things in a different light. One of the most moving parts of his lecture was when he explained the Brick Walls. He said, they are "there to stop other people... that don't really want it." They "let us show our dedication." I feel so grateful to have been able to understand his story and the progress of his dreams come true.
ZOIE ANNA DURA

November 23rd, 2009 at 11:46 pm
After reading this book I was very inspired and awed by the outlook on life Randy had. Made me think about a lot of things differently. Loved it! Amazing book and amazing stories!!
Eileen

November 22nd, 2009 at 10:13 pm
The first time I saw Randy Pausch was on a billboard in Palm Desert, and I decided to google him; that is when I saw the lecture. I thought it was so amazing how he did not let the news of inevitable death paralyze him. Instead, he turned it into something positive, and did not let that slow him down. I know that if that were me, I don't think I could have gone on. He was truly a beautiful person.
Alysia Nixon

November 21st, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Having seen one of the most moving and thought provoking talks in my life, I went online to research a little more background information on his life. I was so inspired that I watched another of his hour long talks at the University of Virginia regarding the topic of “Time Management” just to hear more words of wisdom. To find that led a great life was not surprising at all and I am positive that with just that one hour of his life, his great outlook on life has affected the way millions view their own lives. I know that within that one hour time frame, I sat here in my chair reflecting upon my own life and childhood dreams. I can see that he truly lives by the words he teaches, which is what defines success in life for me. His representation of “brick walls” has forever changed the way I look at obstacles in life and I will never doubt myself again during times of failure. He has left a great legacy of words to think upon, and I am looking forward to re-watching this talk in a few years, to remind myself of the many “head fakes” in life. I now see that although my days may be numbered, but they will be well spent achieving my dreams, and enabling the dreams of others. Thank you Randy Pausch.
David D.

November 21st, 2009 at 4:35 am
After watching Randy Pausch "the last lecture," I was left wanting to have been able to take on of his courses. I like how he pushed through the last months of his life in an upbeat mood, trying to fulfill everything that he had set out to do and not just burying himself in hopelessness. In the end, this is what caught my eye about him, this is what makes him special. He wanted to share what he could, with the most time that he had left. And for that he will be remembered and missed.
An H.

November 20th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
After watching the last lecture was an wonderful and inspirational gift. Randy truly knew how to lead a great life. I wish I could have come across this video many years ago. I could relate every lesson to my own life. Thank you Randy for sharing so much of your life with complete strangers. You are an amazing inspiration and it is a blessing to know that there are individuals in our world like you. Thank you for reminding me of how lucky I am to be where I am today!
Carrie

November 20th, 2009 at 1:32 am
After watching "the last lecture," I have got to say that Randy Pausch is amazing. Very inspirational. Even though his life was cut short, he lived a life worthy of living. The purpose of his lecture was not to pity him, but to encourage others to live their dreams. I was truly moved by his metaphor of a brick wall, "a brick wall isn't there to stop someone, it's there to test those who really want something and to stop those who don't really want it." I also loved when he spoke about his football experience and the influence of his coach, Randy said "when you're screwing up and no one says anything, that's a bad place to be because that's when you know they've given up on you." His lecture really touched me, and I'm glad I was assigned to view this video.
lori gabrintina

November 19th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
After seeing the video and looking up articles regarding Randy and his book, I am very intrigued with the course. The information both he and Don taught was very interesting. The fact that he had such an amazing attitude toward the world was very impressive. Thank you for all the valuable information Randy and your positive outlook on life!
Julien Cromer

November 19th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
I would have to say that this book is amazing. I'm not your typical reader but thanks to the ones whom pushed me to reading this book. Mr. Randy Pausch was probabily a great role model before but now he has become someone's hero. To his family I'm sorry for the loss of a wonderful husband and father, and this book has really made a positive influence on my life and throughtout reading it I've learned that there are many obstacles in life that the average human may face and they may not always be the best.
Jaumanique Moore

November 19th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
The first time that I was introduced to Randy Pausch’s story was shortly before he passed when he was featured on “Oprah”. I had only seen short clips of the lecture but after watching “The Last Lecture” in its entirety, I can honestly say that I am inspired. One of the things that stuck out to me was when he said “I’m dying and I’m having fun”. We often forget to sit back and enjoy life and thanks to Dr. Pausch I have a renewed sense of joy for life. I love the fact that Dr. Pausch’s talk wasn’t just a lecture. It was a way for him to share his life story and to acknowledge all of the people that have inspired him along the way.
Kimberly Ross

November 19th, 2009 at 12:20 pm
Read this book and really evaluate your life and use some of his seven tips if they apply to you.
J.Simon

November 19th, 2009 at 2:19 am
Randy Pausch video has taught me that I should "always smile." Life is too short, therefore i should enjoy my life and continue doing the things that make me happy. Also, his video motivated me to help others because by helping others you help yourself become a better person. It is unfortunate that such a talented person would be taken from us when he was barely blossoming into something so great.
Osvaldo Frausto

November 18th, 2009 at 11:52 pm
I have read the book and the lecture itself is just as good. I am telling everyone I know to watch the lecture and/or read the book. Both leave you feeling sad that such a great guy is no longer with us. However, part of that is remedied by the fact that his legacy has touched so many lives. His laughter and humor encourages others to continue on. I wish the best for his wife and children.
Christine

November 18th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Dreams are very influential and important. The Last Lecture was very interesting and helpful.
Casey

November 18th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
This is an amazing book and I wish all of Randy's family nothing but the best for the future.
LC

November 18th, 2009 at 9:30 am
I found myself in the wee hours of this morning finishing The Last Lecture. It was suggested to me by a young colleague of mine. I am sure he had no idea the impact it would have on me (or maybe he did), but the impact was huge on so many levels, I can hardly put it into words. Perhaps the young man was actually being my "Dutch Uncle". I saw myself frequently in Randy Pausch and felt an almost spiritual conection. Randy's writings have inspired me to be the best I can be for myself and those around me, especially my husband who was diagnosed with cancer a year ago. I will be forever greatful to Mr. Pausch and his brilliant Last Lecture and the young man who led me to the book.
kathy

November 18th, 2009 at 5:35 am
I didn't know anything about Randy if I didn't get online reading assignment from my teacher, Maria Claver at Long Beach university There are so many thing I learned from him just by watching "last lecture." He only had few to live, but he was brave, positive, appreciative and was happy. The video clip made me think about how I should live my life and how I should deal with my problem I have right now. He gave me hope.
Hiromi Iyoda

November 17th, 2009 at 11:47 pm
I remember watching the end of Randy Pausch's last lecture, but today was the first time that I watched the entire video. It was revealed that the "head fake" about the lecture is that it was intended for Pausch's children. Watching the lecture from beginning to end was interesting, because I already knew that the lecture was intended for his children. He was teaching them to achieve their dreams and to help others achieve their dreams. Pausch was full of life until his life ended, having a positive and upbeat attitude about the rest of time that he had. His stories about his football coach, Jim Graham, and the first practice without footballs taught the players many more lessons than just how to play football. Fundamentals are the key to success because without the basic knowledge, you are not able to progress to more complex tasks. Pausch said that his coach was "riding him" all day at one of the practices, and another coach said that it was a good thing because it meant that he believed in him. When my father coached me in basketball, he would constantly yell at me, which I took to mean that he was disappointed in me. My sister later explained that it just meant that he knew my abilities, and that he wanted me to do the best that I could. Pausch was told that when you do something wrong, and no one corrects you, it means that they have given up on you. Randy Pausch has had so many accomplishments, and he is an inspiration for achieving his childhood dreams and never giving up, even after he would hit a brick wall. His lessons have shown me that anything can be achieved, as long as you believe that you can do it, and persevere, even if the task does not seem possible. Another lesson that I can learn from is to not complain, and instead to just work harder. I find that I complain about many things, that I feel cannot be changed, but if I just work harder, I could probably come up with a solution. For example, I complain about being stressed with my large school work load, but if I learned to manage my time better, I would get assignments done earlier and feel less stressed. I hope that I will be able to affect the lives of many people the way that Randy Pausch has, and feel fulfilled in all of my endeavors. He has left behind many great lessons and will never be forgotten.
Kimiko Tsuji

November 17th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
I just wanted to say what a pleasure it was to watch such an inspiring lecture. It is clear that Randy shined throughout his entire life and will continue to be a bright light in the lives of the people who get to watch this lecture. He was a successful example of someone who did not let the fear of death ruin his last precious moments on earth. Instead he took it as an opportunity to treasure his family and friends and to touch as many lives as possible.
Brittany Swinford

November 17th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Randy is definitely a great inspiration to me. His idea of “Brick wall is there for a reason” really encourages me. Several days ago I was just overwhelmed by schoolwork and the job. NOW I feel I am energetic to continue on what I am doing. THANK YOU for the “Last Lecture” and the class instructor who made us watch it.
Arianne

November 17th, 2009 at 4:06 pm
I watched this lecture and I was amazed at how young, fit and energetic Randy was despite being ill. I loved all the points to ponder, my favorite would be to accept others feedback my other favorite was that all people are not all evil, every one has a good side, so just wait it out and they will come around. It really relates to my husbands sister, after a sudden death of his mother 2 years ago, we have not seen or heard from her since the funeral and could you believe she just called to say she want to visit us in 2 weeks all the way from their home country, Denmark. Randy was wise beyond his years, he was given a gift to speak to people at understandable levels, it gives me chills to think he's not with us, but I am happy to see that he is still touching lives and inspiring people like me, a young mother and wife:)
Darlene Bayer-Knudsen

November 17th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Randy Pausch seemed like an extraordinary person. He had the ability to draw the listener in and give the sense that he was the type of person that you would want to surround yourself with. He had a very unusual way of looking at life. He was near death, but still had a positive and upbeat view. If I were in his situation, I would find it hard to be so positive. Most people would be angry and even hateful that this was happening to them, but he took the approach that this is his reality and that he has to keep living his life to its fullest. It’s ironic that this was called his last lecture, because unlike others who have been asked to give a last lecture, in Dr. Pausch’s case it really was. I thought it was remarkable how he achieved his childhood dreams—things that were a fantasy, but he was able to make them a reality. Most people leave their dreams behind as they grow up. Dr. Pausch proved that this is not necessary. There were so many lessons in his short lecture. But the things I took away from it were: live in the moment, be all you can be, cherish your relationships, share all the love you have with others, continue to be a life- long learner and help others achieve their dreams. He also discussed how it is important to put your pride aside and ask for help from others when you need it and when it is offered. He also said to listen carefully when people are giving constructive criticism and to try to listen and use the information to improve yourself.
Kyla

November 15th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Thanks for the strenght you gave us. I needed a word to face my hard times, I got more, much more from your last lecture. I'll bring you with me. Thanks, m.
Maurizio Cercola

November 15th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
i can not say how thankful i am that i came across this book. Randy is such an inspiration not only to me, but to so many others. People with and with out cancer, mothers, fathers, children. Randy you have made me realize that life is more then living for what people want you to live for. I have decided to change my life for the better, and follow my dreams, rather then the dreams of my parents. You are greatly missed Randy and i hope you are having an amazing time where ever you are.
Molly

November 14th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
I just finished reading "The Last Lecture". I love the positive attitude Randy had even after he was diagnosed with cancer and he showed it throughout his book. You are a perfect planner. While reading the book there are times I bursted out of laughter and when I cried out of my lungs. My husband and myself love Randy's Last Lecture so much. We wish good luck for Jai, Dylan, Logan and Chloe. VG
VG

November 14th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
All i want to say, is thaks. Because of Randy, i canged my life, i quit smoke, and now, i now what is important for me. Thanks for this lecture, for book.
Karina

November 13th, 2009 at 10:17 am
I've just finished reading this book, it is amazing. My dad died inJune this year of metastasised colon cancer. We knew he was dying about a year before he did, so we, too, were able to do the things he wanted to do, say those things that really matter. He knew how much i loved him, and i knew how much he loved me. My children were able to say their goodbyes to him as well. He was so precious to me and I miss him dreadfully, but I wouldn't have missed the last year of his life for anything (excepting that he mightn't have died). Thank you for this book. Shirley
shirley

November 10th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
I am studying to become a PA, and this book was just an assigned reading, but it has moved me powerfully. Randy is an amazing role model and a great teacher, even now. Thank you.
Sharon

November 9th, 2009 at 2:36 am
I was given this book by a friend because my mother is dying of liver and brain cancer. I would like to thank Dr. Pausch for writing this. It has given me many different prospectives on cancer and families point of views. Him & his book are true blessings.
M. Gomez

November 8th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Gracias por la ultima lección Randy, tu libro inspira, me lleva a la creatividad todo el tiempo y a expresar mi potencial como jamas conoci. Tu legado es ilimitado, agradezco tu vida a Dios y a este momento de mi vida que me permite descubrirte en un pedacito de mi. La eternidad es el recorrido de tus palabras, tu ultima leccion es la primera de mi vida y la de muchos. GRACIAS RANDY!!!!!!!!!!! Con profunda admiración y amor, JAV
JAV

November 8th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
I have read just finished reading The Last Lecture about Randy's incredible battle with pancreatic cancer. Though this is not the first time I have read the book (I have read it at least 4 times), each time I finish it I'm more moved by the message then the first. The inspiration that the book gives me has made my last year in which has been filled with great adversity just a little more tolerable. I believe that Professor Pausch's words will continue to give strength to not only his wife and kids, but also to people that are looking for strength and hope in a time of dire need? I know that this book has awakened my dream as to live a life filled with sharing quality time with my my four children and to be there for my wife who is battling late stage beast cancer.
J WILKERSON

November 7th, 2009 at 3:23 am
I'm Vietnamese. "The last lecture" is a gift of my sister. I read it and saw the video. They're incredible. Thank you for your advice about life. Wish you, Jai and your children all the best, Mr Randy Pausch!
Quan

November 4th, 2009 at 2:56 am
The Last Lecture is the best book for me
Parinya Munavee

November 1st, 2009 at 6:01 pm
After reading the last lecture I've felt a connection with Randy and that it was saying good bye to a friend I had come to know. But more importantly it influenced to see that life is short and how grateful I am not to be alive!
Dominic Asio

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