Follow Your Heart
“Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.” Steve Jobs
I’ve been extremely fortunate in my life not to have to deal with death very much. But yesterday, one of our family’s dogs, Bailey, passed away. We got Bailey when I was in 5th grade. I’ve been reflecting on all of the good memories we shared, looking through pictures, and trying to hold back the tears. It’s in times like these that I’m reminded of death itself, and how limited our time is.
Those 14 years I shared with Bailey flew by, and I know the next 14 years will go by just as fast, and so will the next 14 after that. But the fact of the matter is, tomorrow is never promised. Every one of us has no idea how much time we have left.
For that reason, we cannot waste our time here on earth. We can’t settle for doing things that we don’t want to be doing. Our time is too valuable, and life is too short to spend it doing anything else other than what you love.
Today I’m sad. I lost a best friend, and a huge piece of my life that I will never forget. But I’m thankful for the reminder of how precious time is. Make sure to tell those you love that you love them today. Tell them every day. Don’t take for granted what you’re lucky enough to have in your life. Cherish those around you. Most importantly, remember to live life on your terms. Follow your heart every chance you get. Life is too short not to.