Just a reminder that life is really short and you need to appreciate every moment and make sure your loved ones know how much you care for and appreciate them. I’m not in a great frame of mind right now, but I really wanted to take a minute and say this because I had a really hard reminder that every moment in life is precious and we can’t take it for granted.
I found out yesterday that an old friend of mine passed away suddenly and I didn’t know about the services until they were already happening so I couldn’t attend. The insane irony was that they were being held down the road from where I live and I was headed somewhere with my boys and we just happened to be the first car stopped at the light when the police escort stopped traffic and I watched as the hearse carrying his casket, which I could clearly see, drove by on the way to the cemetery. I had to explain why I was crying and saying a quick prayer to my boys. They looked shocked when I explained he was actually two years younger than me, as if they hadn’t realized until right then that age isn’t an indicator to death.
It shook me too. Not only am I sad that this kind, funny, caring man I essentially grew up with died suddenly from a freak accident, but it also made me realize how quickly life passes you by. I hadn’t spoken to him in a long time because life was hectic and busy, but a few months ago a mutual friend mentioned him and I thought, “Oh gosh, I need to message him and see how he’s doing.” But I didn’t. And now it’s too late.
I’m not sharing this for condolences, sympathy or anything like that.
I’m sharing this because we all could use a reminder that life is fleeting and can end with no warning.
We need to enjoy every moment, take every opportunity we can, and reach out to loved ones you’ve been too busy to talk to. Stop thinking “Oh I’ll have another chance to do this some other day” because you might not. We need to let go of petty grudges and slights, forgive where you can and move on, and enjoy the time we have here. Tell the people you love that they matter, that you love them, and they’re important to you.
Today I’ve spent more time playing with my kids, gave them extra hugs, and talked to a few friends I hadn’t had the chance to recently. I worked on the book that I’ve been trying to write for over a year. I spent the extra money and splurged on some frivolous thing I’d been wanting to for a while. I had coffee with my mom and talked to my dad on the phone for a bit. Two days ago I would have said I was too busy for most of that and just worked or done the household things I need to do.
It’s been a really shitty month for me for many reasons, but I’m trying to let all the negativity go and be present and enjoy every moment I can because I realize that none of these moments are guaranteed.
I’m going to try and adhere to a quote from my favorite fanfic and “live my life, enjoy my life.” You should too.
