What happens when you die?

This past week, I've had the chance to think about what happens when you die.

Uplifting, I know. But I actually don't think that's so morbid. Death is the one thing we're all hurtling toward. It's just a reality: part of the circle of life.

That's not to say that I don't believe we can be sad when someone important leaves our lives. It's called missing them. We'd miss them similarly if they had decided to leave our lives in any other way. Except that this is final. No changing your mind. No seeing them accidentally on the street. No chance that they'll send you an email to prop you up when you really need it.

But it brought up the question as we sat around the table: what happens to them when they're gone?

Chicago: Diving in

Sometimes, you need to recharge.

Work and life and health and everything conspire and it's like you can't even see your way forward anymore. Stuck. In the mess of your mind.

There have been so many things happening. Changes. Pressures. Plans. Work. Scheduling and task lists. Tempers and holding it all together. Barely. Thoughts about what I'm doing. And why. And what's next.

It was all clouding my brain. I wasn't being a very good me. Not blogging or writing at all, in fact. You know things aren't good when I'm not writing.

And then -- finally -- along comes the much-anticipated IABC World Conference! I was looking forward to it. I needed to get out of the office. To open up my brain to new thoughts and ideas. Figure out my way forward. Chicago is the perfect city.

It was perfect. I got some fantastic inspiration from the speakers. Some ideas from other attendees and exhibitors. And support and general time to talk with my boss. On top of that, I got to remember that my life is important, too. I remembered how much I love adventure and exploring.