The Beauty of Life

Jessica Ressel

Before you get any older, don't forget all the wonderful experiences you've learned and the things you've done... even if it is during the hard times because what you can learn can help you accomplish so much more later in life.

Love life because it is precious. Live every day like it is your last. Enjoy the little moments in your life. Don't forget to see the beauty of the sunset and to play in the rain. Dance just for the heck of it, even if people think you are weird. Sing in the shower just because it is a new day. Stop and smell the roses while there is time.

Life is filled with memories that are precious. Remember the smell of your grandmother's carrot cake and its delicious taste. Don't forget your first crush, your first tear, or your best friend. Remember your first day of school and how afraid you were. Don't forget the Christmas that Santa visited your house and you found his footprints and traces of reindeer in the snow. The Easter Bunny was probably a yearly visitor at your house, too.

I have learned a lot over these past few years. I've learned how important my parents are to me. They have encouraged me to fight my illness, even though sometimes I didn't want to. My family has helped me to learn patience and to believe in myself. My baby brother has shown me how precious human life is. He was born when I was very sick. He was a new life and I felt like I was given a new chance at life. My dad has taught me generosity and made me feel special and loved.

Life has shown me how wonderful it is to be alive. My advice to you is to take care of yourself and those around you. Life is a gift. We never know how much time we have. Enjoy the little moments in life. Make every day count.