Page 42 - THE ENDLESS WAVE | Skateboarding, Death & Spirituality

THE ENDLESS WAVE | PART ONE
him during this time because I knew that time was indeed a very precious commodity for Gregg. Less than a year later, the cancer would take him out.
Tragically, in November of 2013, Gregg Carroll passed away. In May of 2014, he was inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame. The speech that he had written was delivered by his daughter. It was truly amazing to hear his words through her voice. Gregg had prepared every detail with respect to the induction. Eerily, he had a premonition that he was going to be inducted to the Hall of Fame.
For many in the room, there was a sense that Gregg’s spirit was there. I’d say he made his presence known by being truly prepared. Although this wasn’t a funeral or end of life celebration for Gregg, it sure felt like it. What I took away from it was to write something for my funeral that could be read by family.
This book is meant to spark conversations but I’d also like to give you at least a few ideas that might resonate. Gregg took the time to leave a message to those he left behind. I have attended hundreds of funerals but I have only en- countered this idea once. With the right amount of preparation and thought, your voice will reach well beyond the grave. I heard this induction speech over 7 years ago and I can assure you, I will never forget it.
What you decide to put into this farewell address is completely up to you of course. You can add humor, insights or whatever happens to be on your mind at the time you write it. I have my little speech hidden in a container that holds my socks. My brother knows where it is — so if I were to pass unexpectedly, he’ll know where to find it.
You also can keep adding to the words or edit out pieces you don’t think fit. I suggest revisiting the speech maybe every year or two and keep refining it. Of course, you could write it and be done with it. Just make sure someone other than you knows where to find it.
Gregg’s final words to the audience brought everything into focus:
“When those tough days come, when you feel the walls closing in on you a little,” he wrote. “Go jump on your skateboard and feel that special stoke.”
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