"Don't take people or things for granted, because one day they may not be here."

This is a saying that has been popular for years. I never understood the full meaning of the statement until recently. This month, my hometown was hit by a devastating storm that caused horrific flooding. Thousands of civilians across the northern part of Louisiana were put out of their homes, simultaneously losing everything they owned. Not to mention, a few lives were taken. During this time, the president of my university made the executive order to close campus, resulting in seven days of my mind running wild. During this time, I gained a new perspective on life, love, family, and friendships.

Because my neighborhood had flooded enough to where we could not go anywhere safely, my parents didn't allow me to leave the house. So, I spent most of my days on social media and watching the news. As I was looking at pictures on Facebook and Instagram of cars submerged in water and whole neighborhoods looking like lakes, I first thanked God that my house didn't get that much damage. However, it was heartbreaking to think that just a few days ago, thousands of people across northeast Louisiana were out enjoying life, living in a house/apartment, driving, going to school/work, carrying out the basic activities of daily life, and everything they worked and lived for was gone in a matter of hours.

It was in that moment that I realized, just like those possessions, the lives of our loved ones could have easily been taken away. I immediately texted my family who lives out of town and all of my friends, and I even made Facebook posts to check on everybody. I even thought about texting the one person who caused me hurt just last semester, but I chickened out and wrote an imaginary letter to him instead. I just wanted these people to know that I care about them and wanted to see if they were safe. I actually had nightmares that it was my friends and family that were taken away from me, and it was truly terrifying.

With that being said, I ask everyone to appreciate the little things in life, whether that be your car, backpack, clothes, or your home. Then, call your family members you haven't seen or talked to in a while. Hang out with your friends, and even reconcile with your enemies. Let them know that they matter and you love them. As beautiful and amazing this life is, it is indeed a crazy one. One day these amazing things and people are here, and the next day, they could be gone.