I had a phone call with my mom this morning, and she informed me that her aunt had passed away. I had only seen my great aunt a handful of times, and I know my mom also hasn’t seen her a lot within the last few years, but nonetheless it still hurts. Losing anyone is painful, and of course it brings up memories of all of the people who we have lost in our lives. It also reminds me that everyone in my life, including myself, will one day pass on and all that will remain are memories; that is why making this memories is so important.

Drake has a lyric in one of his raps where he says: “everybody dies, but not everybody lives.” Ironically enough, I said this during a conversation with my best friend yesterday, not knowing I would wake up to this news. I feel like I am constantly getting this reminders that life is incredibly short and it has me evaluating my own life and what memories I will leave behind with people once my soul leaves my body one day. It also has me thinking about my own daily habits and what I am doing to enjoy this time I have while I am alive.

I spent a long period of my life worrying about things out of my control, being upset with myself and my brain, and really just living in an anxious state of mind that prevented me from making a lot of memories. I am happy that I have been more present in my life and truly enjoying the happiness around me. I have been practicing gratitude and keeping up with my writing, which really allows me to stay focused on the present moment. I spend time with people who bring me happiness and I spend time doing things that I love.

Of course I still find myself in moments of scrolling and laziness, but also I no longer feel the need to beat myself up about it, as I know I need rest, and I am much better about bouncing back. Sitting in shame and wasting time being upset with yourself or the people around you hinders the quality of your life. Life isn’t about being positive all the time, especially because we all go through tragedy and hard times, but I think it is important to check in with yourself and make sure you are living a life aligned with your values.

Life is hard at times, but it is also the only one we have. The more you love, the more you will grieve when there is loss, but that love is what keeps us all alive once we do pass on. The love you have with your partner, your family, your friends… all of that will remain even if it is in different form. You wouldn’t have good times to remember if you never took time to make those memories in the first place; so love hard, live presently, and make sure you prioritize your happiness while you’re here. Sending love to my family, and to all who need a little extra right now.