Warning: This could be sappy, deep, heavy, intense, etc.

In recent days my thoughts have turned to life, the life I have chosen to live. One year ago when I lost a very good friend to cancer my life changed. There were the obvious aspects of change that occur with the loss of a loved one but for me there was more. For the first time in my life I saw and completely understood the importance of being happy and living your best life NOW. Not when you get married, get that promotion, have that new car, have kids, not someday but NOW....today....this very moment. After all, this moment is all that we can truly be certain that we have. It wasn't magic and didn't happen in an instant. There were even "moments" when I lost sight of the goodness of life but in those moments the people who love me were there to remind me of the beauty. Thank you for that, appreciation has not been adequately expressed. Throughout the past year I have certainly created the life I want to live, the life I used to think was just a dream.

I've come to appreciate the small joys in life. The random little things that make me smile that I used to overlook or fail to acknowledge. I have learned to appreciate the people in my life and to tell them how much I love them, they need to know. I have gained an appreciation and respect for my body, health and fitness. If I don't take care of this body I don't get another chance, this is it. I have learned so many things in the last year that when put into practice have truly changed the course of my life. I've learned from books, I have learned from professionals in forums, I have learned from experience, and I have learned from those who love me. Thank you for being a part of my life.