We have our own books of our lives. Given, it's not one we can see or one we can hold, but it's written in such ink within ourselves. A novel that can’t be unwritten. It’s a book that never has an ending; even after we’re gone, we still have a prologue. Our bodies may be gone but our existence remains to those who keep us alive. We need to make our stories become more than just memories, a whisper of what we used to be. Our stories are our legacy and what we leave behind, will show future generations the type of life we lived. In order to make that story something incredible, there are a few things that we need to remember.

Remember that now is the only thing that matters. Cherish every moment you have with your friends, family, neighbors and everyone inbetween. Don’t live life hanging onto regrets. Don’t linger on the past. Once it’s written, there’s no going back. All you can do is learn from mistakes and from the moments that make us even more human. Every event, every moment that happens for a reason. Everything happens to shape you into the person you’re meant to be.There will be heartbreak, loss, struggles and sadness but you can survive it. Nothing will come into your path that you can’t handle. You were made strong and as very page turns, you’re made even stronger.

Remember it’s up to you whether your book is full of adventure, laughter and grace. It’s remembering to follow your dreams and let time take your hand. Remembering that nobody has an easy path and that you’re not alone. There will always be someone traveling down the same rocky roads. It’s learning how to keep reading, even when the pages are stained with tears. It’s realizing that life isn’t a race. It’s realizing to take your time and experience the little things.

Have that extra piece of cake.
Experience every color.
Smell more than the roses.
Hear the music before the song is over.
Touch the softest of silks.
Speak up when you need to be heard.

Remember to be the type of person that makes a change. Dedicate a Saturday to volunteering to make a change not only in your life, but in someone else’s. Go through your cabinets and donate any food you can spare to a food pantry. Be aware and spread random kindness to touch the hearts of others. Everything choice, every decision and every moment shapes you into the person you’re meant to be.

Remember that you’re the author. Write the story you’d want to keep reading. Find adventure, experience love, expand your knowledge and find a happy ending. Don’t let critiques try to tell you how to write your own story. Love yourself, love others and love the path that you’re on, no matter how bumpy or difficult the road may be.

Finally, always remember to be:
Be strong.
Be encouraging.
Be kind.
Be brave.
Be open.
Be carefree.
Be inspired.
Be Loving.

Finally, be happy with your story. Don’t be scared of how big the roller coaster may be, because in the end, we all get our happy endings.