Grateful for life

Life is short. We hear it time and time again. I say it constantly. But until something affects you personally I don’t think anyone can honestly feel the impact of such a simple phrase. On Monday we said goodbye, suddenly, to a family friend. One day he was having dinner with my parents and the next he had an aneurysm, ending up on life support. Jeff was only 60. My family and our close friends, especially Jeff’s family, are experiencing sadness, grief, and shock. How life can change in a matter of moments.

To Jeff, you were such a kind hearted man who, no matter how short my visits in Florida were, always reminded me how lucky I am to have an amazing family and opportunities. Our baseball trip to Kansas City won’t be the same without you.

When someone passes suddenly it really puts things into perspective. I was stressing about writing this post and getting it out on Sunday.  Then I thought to myself, so what? If it takes a few extra days for me to get my thoughts straight and I am busy creating experiences elsewhere then so be it. 

I am the first one to admit that I get caught up in the little things. I sweat the small stuff. Always. As much as we know it isn’t worth it, those little things still seem to take up wasted space in our lives! This unfortunate situation is a rude awakening for me to let it go. If things don’t serve you purpose forget about them. If your laundry isn’t done, there is always tomorrow. Those small things are exactly that, small things that really don’t matter.

I shared earlier this year that my goal for 2018 is to be the best person I can be and have the best experiences I can, letting go of the what and focusing on the why. Now more than ever I must continue to do that. I have never been one to worry about what others think as long as I am happy and what I am doing serves me in the best way it can. So I will continue to call my parents 10+ times a day, send my brothers ridiculous Instagram memes, smile at strangers, dance on the street when I walk to work at 6:15am, and live life to the fullest. We must show the people closest to us how much we love them.

Life is short. Live the life YOU want, not the one you think you should be living based on what others are saying and doing. Jump on new opportunities to create memories and experiences while you can. You really never know how life can change.

Be fierce.  Be strong.  Be vibrant.

Rachel

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