While the world mourns our favorite beach-bum folk hero, we got to thinking about all the words of wisdom Jimmy Buffett left us with. There are plenty of inspiring words encapsulated within his song lyrics. Jimmy also gave us little snippets uttered during countless interviews and concerts. Compiling this list wasn’t easy, but we think we captured a bit of the Parrot Head soul.
1. “It takes no more time to see the good side of life than the bad.”
Look to the good things in life. These words of wisdom fit equally well in the sunshine of summer or during the somber winter months. Even in the darkest of moments, there is always a bright side.
2. “Quitting doesn’t enter my mind.”
Jimmy Buffett never quit. On July 2, 2023, he was recorded crashing the show of his friend and Coral Reefer band member, Mac McAnally. Mac was playing and Jimmy just walked up on stage to cheers from the crowd. Mac often does cover versions of Jimmy’s hit songs.
3. “Moderation is the key so I work a certain amount of time and then I take a certain amount of time off.”
Always remember to take time off to enjoy life.
4. “It’s those changes in latitudes, changes in attitudes nothing remains quite the same. With all of our running and all of our cunning, if we couldn’t laugh, we would all go insane.”
Many of Jimmy’s song lyrics translate into wonderful life lessons. Laugh lots and you’ll make it through any changes and stumbles in life.
5. “Go fast enough to get there, but slow enough to see.”
Travel quick enough to get to your destination, but go slow enough to see the sights along the way. We often forget these words of wisdom as we hurry through our lives. Slow down and enjoy life along the way!
6. “Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On.”
This line became a mantra uttered often by my late best friend, who was a huge Parrot Head. To this day, everyone in our friend group uses the same mantra when life gets difficult. Just breathe.
7. “Life is much more manageable when thought of as a scavenger hunt as opposed to a surprise party.”
Have you seen my salt shaker? I need it for my cheeseburger.
8. “Be yourself, be pleasant, play hard and have no regrets.”
The reigning takeaway from this quote is to remain genuine and be nice. That is not a difficult ask.
The pirate has passed. RIP Jimmy Buffett. Tremendous influence on so many of us -T pic.twitter.com/HpyDWYWPfE
— Toby Keith (@tobykeith) September 2, 2023
9. “If there’s a heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached.”
We’re sure there is, too, Jimmy.
10. “Take it all in… it’s as big as it seems. Count all your blessings. Remember your dreams.”
Never stop dreaming. Count the blessings along the way and your cup will remain full.
One last quote for the road, “If life gives you limes, make margaritas.” However, please don’t drink and drive. Are you planning any margarita gatherings with your friends to celebrate Jimmy’s passing? After much thought on the subject, we’re pretty sure he’d rather go out with a party than have a bunch of people sitting around being sad. Put on your flowered shirt and have a grand time!
You can find the source of this story’s featured image here.
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