Making Every Moment Count: Lessons from a Life-Changing Storm

Rock ‘n roll pioneer Buddy Holly, who died in a plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa, in Feb.1959

On February 3, 1984, my wife Betsy and I came dangerously close to losing our lives when our car got stuck on an Iowa highway in a deadly snowstorm. Stranded for a day in freezing temperatures, Betsy even began writing her will. We were finally rescued by the Fort Dodge High School basketball team and taken to safety, a moment that forever changed my perspective on life.

Ironically, the storm struck as I was driving back to Des Moines from Clear Lake, Iowa, where I had been on assignment as a cub reporter for UPI. I had just covered the 25th anniversary of the Winter Dance Party concert at the Surf Ballroom—the very last show played by Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper before their tragic plane crash on February 3, 1959, the day the music died. To have survived a storm so eerily similar to the one that claimed their lives felt like more than coincidence—it was a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of making every moment count.

Reflecting on that experience, I’ve carried three key lessons forward, both personally and professionally. And in honor of Buddy Holly, each lesson ties back to one of his timeless songs.

1. "Everyday" – Find Meaning in the Small Moments

Buddy Holly’s “Everyday” is a song about simple joys, and that’s exactly what we should embrace. It’s easy to get caught up in the grind, but true fulfillment comes from appreciating the small things—a laugh with a friend, a sunset, or a moment of quiet gratitude.

2. "Rave On" – Bring Passion to Everything You Do

Whether in work or relationships, passion fuels a meaningful life. After surviving that storm, I vowed never to go through the motions. If something is worth doing, it’s worth giving it your all—enthusiasm is contagious, and it inspires those around you.

3. "Not Fade Away" – Leave a Lasting Impact

Life is fragile, but what we do with our time can create a lasting legacy. Whether through kindness, mentorship, or the work we create, making a difference ensures that even when we’re gone, our influence lives on.

That night in 1984 taught me that life can change in an instant. Every day is a gift—so let’s make it count.