Earlier this week, I heard some very sad news that someone I had gone to high school with had been in a horrifying motorcycle accident. Friends and alumni all came together in remembrance of that bond we share as alumni. I spoke with friends who were just as much in shock and saddened by the news. It was a reminder that life is fleeting and ten seconds can change the entire course of our lives. Here are some quotes to live by.

1. "Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me." - Carol Burnett

2. "Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations." - unknown

3. "Work on being in love with the person in the mirror, who has been through so much but is still standing."

4. "We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us."

5. "Breathe. It's just a bad day, it's not a bad life."

6. "In the end, she became more than she expected. She became the journey, and like all journeys, she did not end, she just simply changed directions and kept going." - R.M. Drake

7. "You are under no obligation to be the same person you were a year, month or even fifteen minutes ago. You have the right to grow. No apologies."

8. "Surround yourself with people who see your value and remind you of it."

9. "Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that's the one that's going to help you grow." - Caroline Myss

10. "The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams." - Oprah Winfrey

These quotes are everyday reminders that life is ephemeral and it must be lived to the fullest. When you wake up every morning, remind yourself of your passions and go about your day trying to live up to your goals. Make every action you do each day intentional. Don't forget to be yourself every time you step outside and to always stand up for what you believe in. One day, you might not have the chance to tell the people you love that you love them or to say the things you think you shouldn't say. Don't be afraid to say those things and to remind people constantly about how much you care. Live your life to the fullest and live it the way you think it should be lived.