Today is my 32nd birthday, and tonight I will be attending a showing for a young man who just had his 20th. A young man, who I did not know well, but well enough to know that the world would be a sweeter, wiser, and more considerate one if he were still in it.
This loss has made me pause. Made me think about how my life has evolved from age 20 to 32. So much change, so many experiences, an exorbitant amount of love.
As I enter into my 32nd year, I want to remind myself of adages that may be seen as cliches, but I think, deserve to be acknowledged. I want to remember to "seize the day," "cherish and utilize my blessings," "give thanks," "savor the moment," and "live like today is my last."
I am thankful for my 32 years, and hopeful that I will get to spend many more with my husband, my children, my family, and my friends. However, I don't want to wait to celebrate. Today I will celebrate that I got to sing in the car, that I got to spend an afternoon with my kiddos, my aunt, and my darling baby cousin, that my husband left me a love note on the kitchen table, that my family will gather for dinner, and that I get to go celebrate a young man who impacted many in a short time.
And tomorrow, I will try to remember to celebrate again.
