A Funeral Preview (and Book Launch Party I Won’t Forget!)

At my recent book launch, it felt like a preview of my own funeral—surrounded by loved ones from all stages of life, sharing laughter, and feeling an outpouring of genuine support. It was a reminder of the incredible power of connection. If you get a chance to celebrate yourself with those who matter, take it. You might be surprised at the love waiting for you.

“Most of us don’t get to have a preview of our funeral.”

Those words from the emcee have been ringing in my ears. That’s how Shawn Sullivan introduced me to share during my public book launch on Sunday afternoon.

He was spot on – people who have been meaningful to me for the past 50+ years showed up to encourage and celebrate with us. They were from all walks of life – representing 5 different families, friends from high school to present, co-workers from all my different jobs, and those involved in my many hobbies over the years.

It was absolutely overwhelming and so emotional.

Sometimes I struggle with feeling that people don’t actually care for me, and instead, they are just pretending they like me. Yeah, I know, I still have issues. But on Sunday the evidence was overwhelming; I couldn’t deny it. The outpouring was unbelievable and everyone (including me) was just having SO MUCH FUN!

It was two hours of laughing and smiling; and the emails, texts, and calls I have received after have continued that natural high we were all feeling.

If you ever have a chance to celebrate yourself with those you love, I highly recommend it – even if it’s not really a funeral preview!

Thank you to everyone who showed up to make the day amazing, and to everyone who has supported me along the way. I am still buzzing from your support and encouragement. 🙌😊

JOIN ME ONLINE FOR A

As a reminder, you’re invited to join my virtual launch party on March 13th at 6 pm Central time!

This will be part of my interview with Twinflower Books. 

Follow the Eventbrite link to RSVP today!

SAFARI ANIMAL FUN FACT

Did you know that the African elephant, the largest land animal on Earth, has an incredible memory?

These majestic creatures can remember specific locations of water sources, food, and other important landmarks for several years. This ability allows them to navigate vast areas in search of resources and also helps them recognize other elephants and remember individuals they have encountered in the past.

We encountered this first-hand in Rwanda. Our guides knew which elephants to avoid because they were very aggressive toward humans, which was usually a result of them witnessing their baby get killed by poachers.

These specific elephants remember those moments and, as a result, see every human as a threat.

Again, I want to thank everyone who has been on this journey with me, supporting both my new book and my speaking endeavors.

Your encouragement has played a vital role in allowing me to share my message and inspire others. Thanks for being a part of the story, and for allowing me to be a part of yours!

Sincerely,

Steve Fredlund
The Safari Dude
Life is an adventure. Make it epic.

Shoot me an email, connect on LinkedIn, subscribe on YouTube, consider coaching, find me at a conference, or whatever makes sense in your world. 

About The Author

Steve Fredlund Keynote Speaker

Steve Fredlund is The Safari Dude. As a professional actuary in human resources analytics, he uncovered surprising factors that enhance employee engagement, and work enjoyment; key elements for effectiveness, enhanced retention, productivity, and organizational success.

Minnesota to Rwanda, nonprofit to corporate, start-ups to Fortune 500 companies he brings to your event thirty years of leadership success. Steve’s personal safari mission is to help great leaders and their teams enjoy an epic safari by getting the right peeps in their jeeps and in the right seats

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