That whole epiphany thing…
A few months ago, I came to a personal epiphany of sorts. Basically, you never know when life is going to end, so you need to live it to the fullest, let the people around you know that you love them as much as possible, and don’t sweat the small insignificant things in life. Since then, I’ve been a much happier person overall in pretty much every facet of my life. I’ve also worked hard on getting healthier. In fact, since the beginning of August, I’ve lost nearly 30 pounds. I did it by decreasing my portions, eating healthier and actually exercising. I know, weird how that actually works huh?
Anyway, despite all of that, and how great things have been for me lately, I was strongly reminded how it can all be taken away in an instant. A friend from high school passed away in his sleep from a heart attack this past weekend. He was 38 years old.
His name was Tim, and he’s another one of those people whom everybody liked. I don’t think I could find a classmate if I tried that didn’t think Tim was a wonderful person. To have him lose his life at such a young age is a real tragedy, and I feel absolutely horrible for those who were still really close to him.
I’m not sure why, but this has hit me fairly hard. It could be that it was a peer who was even younger than me who passed. It could be the simple ‘out-of-the-blue’ nature of it. It could be that I’m three days from my 39th birthday. It could be that I’m missing my family as they’ve been out of town for almost a week, and I feel desperately like I should be giving them hugs and telling them how much I love them right now. Whatever it is, the feeling sucks.
It’s this feeling, which I’ve been reminded of far too much the last few years, that reminds me to enjoy what precious little time we have. The next time something insignificant bothers you, try to remember the big picture, and take control on how you react. You have the power to control how you feel, and how you go through life. Use it.
October 19, 2009 @ 2:54 pm
Sorry to hear about your loss. I too am very sensitive of this lost a school buddy at the age of 36 a couple of years ago – died in his sleep as well. Also a pretty famous school colleague of mine (professional football / soccer player) died just nearly two years ago – again at 36 (died on the football pitch whilst playing in front of thousands of fans – and his young family). Tragic stuff – think about these people nearly every day.
You are doing the right thing re health and fitness – got to give ourselves the best chance – for our family’s sake
October 20, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
Hi Chris, thanks for commenting. I totally agree. I feel that you are best represented by the memories and people you leave behind. But I sure hope to make a lot more memories with my family! Health is key! Thanks again for the wishes.