I do a lot of musing about the meaning of life and happiness. Both can be fleeting. Both have purpose. Both are necessary for the time we’re allotted to be more than a rat race.

Over the last couple of years, I’ve lost friends. Death, although a natural part of life, can produce different fruit in those grieving. For me, it pushed me forward to not continue to put my dreams on hold and to cherish the loved ones I have.

Sure, there are days when I awake that all I really want to do is pull the covers back over my face and bunker back down under the sheets. And then I remember: my time on this earth is limited; I should use it wisely.

I need to make sure my I love yous are said; that those who I cherish know their worth to me; and, of course, that bygones be simply that – issues better forgotten.

I miss those who are no longer here. And although my circle of friends is now smaller, they have taught me through their deaths, as through their lives, the true meaning of carpe diem.

RIP…we miss you!