You only live once

I can’t figure out if it was Mae West or Joe E. Lewis who once said, “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough”.  I’ve always loved that quote.  With each moment and breath, we’re a moment and breath closer to death.  It’s an obvious part of life, and a healthy thought to contemplate now and then.  Thoughts often creep in while I’m out on walks.  The newness of the day and the breathtaking beauty of where I live naturally push me to be grateful for my present state of impermanence.  


How often does everyone really ‘seize the day’ and live as though they could die at any time?  How often do we forget or ignore the truth in that last statement?  Not just ourselves, but the people we love, the people we know.  Who’s it going to be?  The aging grandfather who’s been bedridden for over a year, whose quality of life has been plundered by disease?  The adventurous, sweet, young man who works in the kitchen, plays intense music, is best friend to his widowed father, and sends twisted, funny text photos to his friends?  Or will it be the carrier pigeon that finds your yard to be a great place of rest until he drowns in the swimming pool?  


Now is the time to embrace life… while we’re still alive.  Neither for the charms of yesterday, nor the promises of uncertain tomorrows… we must tap into awareness and give thanks for the present.  Every day is different; every day must be a fun, treasured gift.  Live it up.