What really matters

Tragic events such as what happened yesterday in Boston make you realize what really matters.

Such events have a way of grounding us; they make us take a step back and reevaluate our lives and our priorities.

Ever since May 1998 (after a health scare that my father had) it has been a rule in my family to never leave the house without saying I love you.

Regardless of whether I was fighting with my father over unloading the dishwasher, or whether my sister and I were fuming with rage over stealing each others clothing… whatever it was, hugs, kisses and ‘i love you’s were always exchanged before goodbyes.  

The reasoning behind this family rule was that you never knew when that goodbye might be your last.

My parents always felt strongly that the last words exchanged were words of loving kindness. 

It is events such as yesterday’s tragedy in Boston which make me so grateful for having and following that rule within my family. 

Similarly, tragedies such as yesterday’s in Boston make me realize what is truly important in life.  When it comes down to it, I believe that health and happiness are the things that matter.

It is your health which keeps you alive and enables you to think about the other things in life.*

[*Anyone who has ever been truly, seriously sick knows that when your health and livelihood are brought into question, there are few things that cross your mind other than survival.] 

I believe that after your health, it is your friends, family and loved ones which matter most. They are the people who help to drive and sustain you through the tough times. They are the things that can’t be replaced; they are the things that matter.

So, take a moment to reflect today on what really matters. 

Take a minute to contact your family and tell them you love them. 

Reach out to an old friend and send your regards. 

Take a deep breath of fresh air. 

Take time out of your day to help those less fortunate than yourself. 

Look around at all of the natural beauty that surrounds you and realize just how fortunate you are in life.

Patton Oswalt shared his thoughts on the tragedy in Boston and I felt inspired to share it, as it was truly a touching, hopeful remark;

“So when you spot violence, or bigotry, or intolerance or fear or just garden-variety misogyny, hatred or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, the good outnumber you, and we always will.”

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