Choosing Tigger

In Randy Pausch's Last Lecture, he says that very early in life, we all make a decision that is perfectly captured by Winnie-the-Pooh characters: are you a fun-loving Tigger, or a sad-sack Eeyore?

The Story Behind Tigger and Eeyore

While most know about Tigger and Eeyore, many might not know the larger story behind Tigger and Eeyore. Tigger comes to Winnie's front door late one night. Winnie invites him into his home, and adopts him into his family. Tigger bounces his way through life on his tail. He says, "Bouncing's what Tiggers do best!" He is proud of his bounce in life and wants others to enjoy bouncing their way through their lives. Yet, Tigger is far more than merely a bouncing, enthusiastic animal. He is a thinker, optimistic, hopeful, and imaginative.

Eeyore appears to be the opposite of Tigger. He is not bouncing around life on his tail like Tigger. In fact, he often loses his tail. We would describe Eeyore as morose, gloomy, negative, and a depressed donkey.

Pausch's Perspective on Tigger and Eeyore

Interestingly, Pausch knows both Tigger and Eeyore quite well and addresses the issue surrounding both of them. (Bear in mind, Pausch dies due to pancreatic cancer ten months after his Last Lecture.) Pausch, in his Last Lecture, wants us to think about who we are in life. The choice is either Tigger or Eeyore.

Embracing the Tigger in Life

Pausch is clearly in the Tigger camp. And, you were definitely a Tigger. One of the first things people talk about is your laugh and how you made everything so fun and happy. You went through life intentionally looking for the good.

The Essence of Tigger vs. Eeyore

And, that what Tigger vs. Eeyore is all about — positivity vs. negativity. Tiggers see the world as full of opportunities for positive interactions, while Eeyores dread every inevitable conflict. Each of these experiences of the world is directly caused by attitude.

Choosing Positivity

You chose to be a Tigger each and every day of your life. While we were opposites and you knew my struggles with depression and all things Eeyore, I will purpose to choose to be a Tigger - to carry your joy!

The Impact of Positivity on Life

Choosing to be a Tigger means more than just being cheerful. It means actively seeking the good in every situation, no matter how dire. It means embracing challenges with a hopeful spirit and an imaginative mind. Your Tigger-like approach to life brought so much joy to those around you, and it is a legacy I cherish.

A Personal Commitment to Positivity

Though I have often found myself in Eeyore’s camp, grappling with feelings of gloom and despair, your example inspires me to choose differently. It is not about denying the reality of pain and hardship but about facing them with a resilient and optimistic attitude. You showed me that it is possible to find joy even in the most difficult circumstances, and that is a lesson I carry with me every day.

Moving Forward with Tigger's Spirit

As I move forward, I commit to embracing the Tigger within me. I will look for the good, find reasons to laugh, and spread joy wherever I go. It is a conscious choice, one that requires effort and intention, but it is a choice that honors your memory and the happiness you brought into my life.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Joy

In conclusion, the Tigger vs. Eeyore dichotomy is a powerful reminder of the impact our attitudes can have on our lives and those around us. By choosing to be a Tigger, I am choosing to live a life full of hope, joy, and positivity. It is a way to keep your spirit alive and to bring light into a world that often feels dark.

Your laughter, your love, and your unwavering positivity will always be a part of me. And as I navigate the ups and downs of life, I will strive to be a Tigger, just as you were, bringing joy and hope to everyone I meet.