A Promise to Myself

I sometimes find myself in situations that make me realize the fragility of life. Typically when one considers the word “ fragile”, it is viewed with a negative connotation. This word is often associated with “weak” or “frail”. However, I choose to see this as an opportunity. If life is so fragile, so easily taken away, this should be all the more reason to live it the way you want, and be spontaneous in the way you go about your daily routine (or lack thereof). You see, life is incredibly short. I know this is preached through the cliche saying of “ you only live once”, but this phrase could not be more valid.

Recently, a moment which prompted this sequence of thought in my mind was as I was watching the sunset on the beach in Florida, listening to the lumineers and sharing it with two incredible friends. As I marveled at the sky which was divinely painted with vibrant oranges and pinks, I couldn’t help but ponder the beauty that existed in that moment. There I was, so very present in reality with two amazing people, both of whom will be following paths much different than mine; one on her way to the University of Michigan, the other Michigan State. “Life will never again be the way it is right now”, I thought to myself. Never again.

I will never again be as young as I was at that moment, physically, emotionally, and mentally; revelling at God’s creation with a twinkle in my eye, innocent naivety driving my perception.

You can never relive the same moment twice. At first glance, this is a rather sad statement. However, if you allow it to resonate with you, it’s a reminder to live every second like it’s your last. Savor every piece of every chapter in your life; the happy moments, the sad ones, and even those you might find rather boring. In the end, they will all culminate to create an astounding story that is unique to you.

As I sit here in my car, I see that I have 5 minutes until I have to walk into school; the same old Hartland high school I’ve seen almost every day for the past 4 years of my life. Lately I’ve been feeling resentment towards this place, reminding myself each day that I am almost done, almost in college, almost away from this same old monotonous routine in which I’ve been trapped. It’s during moments of reflection such as this that I remember the value of each day. Eventually, I will look back and wish I could walk the halls of this place one last time; that I could experience the sensation of youth before the real world corrupts me, the feeling of wonder and the yearning to explore and discover what life has in store for me. I take comfort in this period of my life, as I know that there is beauty in every day, and each one is a gift.

Through documenting this, I am making a written promise to myself to slow down; to soak in every last second which I have left before I set out into the real world.

To my fellow seniors, I hope this inspired you to make the most out of the last 2 months we have in high school. To everyone else reading this, take this as a reminder to genuinely live each day and be present in the moment.

Thank you for reading,

-Ava Jean:)