Winter flying

[Tom Flanigan]

When I was Director of Financial and Information Systems at Verizon I gave a speech to my employees. Some submitted questions prior to the speech. This is an excerpt from my speech answering a question. It sums up how I have lived my life and why I free fall skydive. I have lived a very unordinary and exciting life, for which I am grateful.


4. If you could give one piece of advice to yourself at age 17, what would it be?

Work hard, provide for your family while at the same time pursue your dreams unabashedly, unafraid and uncompromising, with knowledge and foresight. Always travel the path less trodden, even though you might be thought a fool. Experience the incomparable adrenalin rush of challenging, soul satisfying and daring endeavors, despite the inherent risks that prevent most from achieving true Nirvana. Overcome fear and remember that longevity has its place, but not if it is purchased at the price of unrealized ambitions and dreams.