Randy Pausch

M: In your book The Last Lecture, you expressed that this book was written for your children. You wanted to be able to teach them the things that you would have taught them had to not been faced with pancreatic cancer. Looking back, is there anything you wish you could have added?

RP: In this book, I did my best to encompass on the things I wished to carry on and instill in my children. I am sure I may have forgotten a thing or two, but my children were blessed with a great mother, whom I dearly loved, that I know will do a great job raising them.

M: Battling pancreatic cancer, there were times, as you expressed in your book, that you were in great physical pain. How did you find it within yourself to remain composed during public appearances when the physical pain was overbearing.

RP: "You just have to decide if you’re a Tigger or an Eeyore." Despite the situtation I was in, I could not decide if I was going to be in pain or not going to be in pain. The act of concealing the pain was harder at some times than others, but there was no use in me having a bad attitude about a situation I could not control. I chose to be a Tigger.

M: You presented an interesting idea in your book about the nature of mankind. Do you really believe there is good in everyone?

RP: Yes, I really do. You must "find the best in everybody. Just keep waiting no matter how long it takes. No one is all evil. Everybody has a good side, just keep waiting, it will come out."

M: I guess it just takes some soul searching and patience, eventually the good will shine through in us all. Any last thoughts before we head off to start soul searching?

RP: "Be prepared. Luck is truly where preparation meets opportunity."