Until his untimely death at age 45 from a pulmonary embolism in December of 2006, Richard Carlson lived his life according to the motivational yet down-to-earth wisdom he penned in the best-selling Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff. While dealing with her grief, Richard’s wife, Kristine, read through 25 years’ worth of their love letters. One in particular, a letter Richard gave her on their 18th wedding anniversary, stood out and became the basis for this passionate account, An Hour to Live, an Hour to Love: The True Story of the Best Gift Ever Given.
Eerily written only three years before his death, Richard’s letter centers on his favorite quotation by author Stephen Levine: If you had an hour to live and could make just one phone call, who would it be to, what would you say . . . and why are you waiting? Looking back on his life, Richard reaffirms dismissing all of the day-to-day stuff and concentrating on the moments with the people you love. He describes how he would live his life over, listening more, loving more and not being in a hurry. Richard concludes by suggesting that we should all find what makes us happy and question whether it is worth talking about in the last hour of life.
Following her husband’s letter is Kristine’s equally moving response, which serves as a tribute to Richard’s life and work and their marriage. It is also a call to readers to develop and nurture relationships and leave the world complete, just as Richard strived to do. Followers of Richard’s books will learn more about this extraordinary man, and will continue to be inspired by his love for life. Those suffering from the loss of a spouse or partner will find comfort in Kristine’s grief process.
