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Remembering The Last Lecture: A Masterclass in GratitudeWBy Sonny Melendrezhen computer science professor Randy Pausch stood before a packed lecture hall atCarnegie Mellon University in 2007, he was not speaking as a man defeated by terminal cancer, but as a man profoundly alive. His message, later captured in The Last Lecture, is not about dying—it’s about living with purpose, gratitude, and unshakable joy.Pausch begins with humor, disarming the audience as he reveals his diagnosis. Yet from the moment he starts speaking, he transforms what could have been a somber farewell into a masterclass in optimism. His lecture—subtitled “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”—is a roadmap to a meaningful life, told with warmth, humility, and contagious enthusiasm.He doesn’t preach about success; he demonstrates it through the lens of wonder. He reminds us that dreams matter—not because they can come true, but because of who we become while chasing them.Pausch’s stories of building virtual worlds, working at Disney Imagineering, and even experiencing rejection teach us that obstacles aren’t there to stop us. “The brick walls,” he said, “are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want things.”Though millions have watched Randy Pausch’s Last Lecture, he created it for an audience of three—his children. One day, when they’re old enough, his wife Jai says they’ll see not just a video, but a living memory of their father. “They’ll be able toFREE Estimates$100 off with project of $1,000 or$200 off with project of $2,000+• Interior & Exterior Painting • Fence & Deck Staining• Cabinets- Refinish• And more!VETERAN OWNEDCall Chris and Crystal today!(210) 446-5795magnapainting.comsee Randy at his absolute best,” she says. “He was an extraordinary lecturer, a gifted teacher, and they’ll get to see him doing what he loved most—sharing wisdom, joy, and hope.”Randy Pausch did not conquer death; he transcended it. His message endures as a call to live intentionally—to lead with curiosity, serve with kindness, and fill every moment with purpose. In the end, The Last Lecture isn’t about how to die well. It’s about how to live well, every single day.Sonny Melendrezis an award-winningmotivational speaker,Hall of Fame radio/TV host and author,based in San Antonio.For more of his enthusiastic brand of inspiration and speaking information, visit www.SonnyMelendrez.com and listen to his podcast.Happy Thanksgiving Happy ThanksgivingFrom Our Family To Yours From Our Family To YoursBarbera PRODUCTIONS, LLCO’ Connor High School Theatre Presents OnceSubmitted By OC TheaterUpon A Mattress“Once Upon a Mattress”is set in a medieval kingdom, following the search for a princess to marry Prince Dauntless, whose domineering mother, Queen Aggravain, has made it nearly impossible for anyone to pass her rigorous tests. Enter Princess Winnifred, a spirited and unrefined young woman from the swamps, who arrives seeking the prince’s hand in marriage. With witty dialogue, lively musical numbers, and unforgettable characters, this hilarious production will delight audiences of all ages. “Once Upon a Mattress” offers a comedic twist of a fairy tale, touching onthemes of tradition, family, and royalty.DatesDecember4,5&6at7pmVenueSandra Day O’Connor High School AuditoriumBuy Tickets Here [https://oconnorhs.booktix.com/dept/ OCDrama/e/OUAM](https://oconnorhs. booktix.com/dept/OCDrama/e/OUAM)November 2025www.heloteshighlights.com 5Now OfferingEPOXYFlooring!