Professors at universities are periodically asked to give "Last Lectures"-- theoretical talks as if for the last time. What would the professors say if this were their last time behind a lectern? What wisdom would they impart?

For Carnegie Mellon professor Randy Pausch, this was not a theoretical event. Diagnosed with terminal cancer, delivered his words of advice in a memorable speech. That message has now been made into a book called of course, "The Last Lecture."

I think about Randy Pausch today (and wish the best for him.) I also think about our Cary jogger, Nancy Cooper, who went missing Saturday and whose body was found yesterday. According to reports, she left Saturday morning to go on a jog and never returned, leaving behind two young children. (My heart goes out to her family.)

I think about Randy, I think about Nancy, and beyond the tragedy of their lives, I wonder what wisdom would Nancy have liked to give her children as her "last lecture."

What wisdom would you give your own children? What would I give mine?

I would tell my oldest that he is on the path to be a fine young man. He has everything he needs inside his heart to take him in the right direction. I'd tell him that the girls, they will come. And when they do, make sure that they treat him well. I know he will do that for them, once he manages to actually talk them!

To my second son, I'd tell him that he has so much potential, and he can achieve whatever he wants as long as he channels it. I'd tell him not to be afraid to be himself-- he's terrific just as he is. Listen to the voice inside because it usually knows what's right and what's wrong. So let the quiet be for a few minutes so you can hear it.

My third son I'd tell to find his passion, whether it's drums or cooking, or whatever. He has imagination and creativity and can do great things. I'd tell him to eat healthier, because I want him to tell his grandchildren about me. And I'd tell him to keep being a great team member when he plays baseball. And work hard because he'll see the results.

My daughter--oh I have so much to tell her about navigating that road to womanhood. I'd tell her that her brothers will look out for her, even when it just seems that they're being annoying. I'd tell her that the people she surrounds herself with, whether it's girls, or (much) later, boys, should make her feel good about herself, not bad. That girls can be very catty, but she shouldn't sink to their level-- she'll regret it later.

And, of course, I'd tell them how much I love them, and how I'd give anything to be with them still.

On second thought, maybe I won't wait until it's time for a last lecture. I think I'll start telling them this right now.