Carson inspired me from the moment I first met him—even as an 8-year-old. Over the years, he encouraged me to wear my heart on my sleeve and work hard at the things I’m passionate about. Since his passing, I’ve tried my hardest to live the way he did.
Starting off with a bang… I got bangs (lol) because he once told me to just do it—and he was totally right, it was a good look! My “why nots” haven’t been grand or expensive, but even small things—like getting my own “why not?” and candelabra tattoos, running a 5K, and signing up to skydive later this year—make me feel his presence and pride.
While many use “Why not?” as motivation to check major items off their bucket lists, I use it more to get through each day. It helps me give myself grace: to eat what I want, rest when I need to, and also check the validity of my excuses—just like Carson often did. I think this is what he would be most proud of.
To me, “Why not?” means living each moment trying to fill your own cup—and pour into yourself. This is the only life we get, so I intend to overflow that cup!
Shannon Stone
