Simply put, mattering matters. Isaac Prilleltensky and Ora Prilleltensky were prolific and innovative advocates, educators, and pathfinders dedicated to bringing the importance of mattering into public awareness and practice. As psychologists, thought leaders, and changemakers, they championed an unwavering belief in the dignity and worth of every individual. In their own words, “Mattering consists of feeling valued and adding value to ourselves and others. It means feeling valued, appreciated, respected, and recognized. This is a precondition and a prerequisite for a meaningful life.”
As husband and wife, trailblazers, and visionaries, they co-authored dozens of books and more than 100 scholarly articles exploring the connection between mattering and what it means to live a life imbued with meaning and purpose. Isaac was the former dean of the University of Miami School of Education and Human Development, and Ora was an assistant professor at the school as well as a fierce advocate for disability rights.
I met Isaac when he was the scholar-in-residence at the University of Pennsylvania Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program. He instantly became a mentor, champion, and friend. Over the years, he was a recurring guest on my podcast, Sci-Why: Thought-Provoking Conversations with Positive Psychology Thought Leaders. He never disappointed. Isaac had a remarkable ability to make people think expansively, always leading with empathy, wisdom, and possibility.
I was saddened that I could not visit Isaac and Ora at their home in Miami because of their health challenges. Isaac met his cancer diagnosis with courage and acceptance, choosing to continue living fully alongside the love of his life and their son while staying connected to former students, many of whom regarded him as both mentor and beloved chosen family. Isaac died on May 7, and Ora died four days later. It gives us comfort to know they are no longer apart.
Remember, when things seem overwhelming, that you matter. Each one of us has the ability and (perhaps) the obligation to do something to encourage others because that’s the foundation of leading a life that matters.
