In the past year, I have come to the realization that life is too short to not cherish the things you love. Since the passing of my father, I have looked at life through a new perspective. The people you love will not be around forever so cherish those precious moments you have with them. Family and friends are the most important things in my life. Family will always be there for you and will love you unconditionally even if they hate you some days. They would do whatever it takes to make sure you are okay and happy. They will always be the first ones there right when you need them, even if they live in another state. You're family supports you in everything you do and are always your number one fans. You never realize how much you love someone until they are gone, so show them every opportunity you get because it may be your last chance. Most people will brush this off and say 'Oh nothing bad will happen to them because they're healthy and happy' until they're gone and you were forced to learn the hard way like I did.
Friends are the few people you count on to be there for you whenever you need them. When there is something you don't want to tell your family, a friend will be there to lend the listening ear or the shoulder to cry on. A good friend is one that picks you up when you are down and makes you laugh when all you want to do is cry. When family isn't around, they're the first people you call. they will support you in every decision you make but will be truthful and tell you when you're wrong. Your parents treat your friend as if they are their own child. They come to all the family gatherings and birthday parties because your whole family asks where they are when they are not with you. At this point you no longer have a friend, you have another family member. The friends you have that become family are so important, make sure you share how much they truly mean to you. Life is too short too hold back your feelings, so love with all your heart and speak your mind often.
Like I said in the first sentence, life is too short to not do what you love. Many people have hobbies such as playing an instrument, knitting, or playing sports. I love the game of soccer. If I could play everyday until the day I die I would. It makes me so happy and I never get sick of it, even after already playing for 12 years. The endorphins released when you exercise diminish the perception of pain, it's like a drug but better because you can't get addicted. Endorphins make you a happier person as well. Exercising, such as playing a sport or just running, reduces stress, depression, anxiety, and boosts your self-esteem. Whenever I am feeling down or just not myself, I go and play soccer. I forget about everything that is on my mind and I am only focused on the game. Once my dad passed, I lost my drive to play. Everything in my life ceased for a while because I didn't know how to handle the emotional toll and stress of losing a parent. During this time period I was asked to commit to a school to play soccer at the division 1 level, but because I was in a slump, I declined all offers and chose the school closest to home. Once I realized my mistake it was too late. I was in season for basketball and I took over a week off. Once I realized that my father would have wanted me to continue to do what I loved and not mope around, I started playing again. Not very well but it made me feel better, it kept my mind off the world around me for a few hours and I was able to smile again. Even when bad things happen in your life, you shouldn't quit doing the things you love. That will only make things worse.
Do what you love and love the people in your life unconditionally because one day it may all be gone.
