No matter how many years we are blessed with to walk this earth, when we lose someone we love, it always feels like life is just too short. It is hard to understand, when someone who should still have had so much life left to live, is taken from us far too young. And harder still to accept, when they leave behind families, partners, children, who will live with their loss every day, for as long as they breathe, because let’s face it, grief never really goes away. It changes. It softens. The rough edges smooth out. But it stays with us and becomes part of who we are.

Regret is a terrible thing. Mostly because it’s often avoidable but because of ego, our stubborn human nature, or sadly, just holding on to a grudge a little too long, things are often left too late and we find ourselves on the wrong side of time, with is a sore heart and a bucket full of should’ve, would’ve, wish-I-could’ve’s.

We can never go back and re-write history but we can move forward towards a better tomorrow. So let’s commit to being present and available for our loved ones, our friends and family, while we still have the opportunity. Let’s tell our people we love them, let’s step away from work, from deadlines and from our devices and let’s live. Let us prioritise balance, let us invest in ourselves, in our relationships and in our spiritual well-being. Let’s not make excuses and allow fear to drive our narrative. Let us take back the power and manifest magic for ourselves and everyone within our circle. Let us not be afraid to set boundaries and to walk away from environments, relationships or circumstances that make us sick. Whether physically, mentally or spiritually, let us own our health and afford ourselves the same courtesy we afford others.

You matter. We have no guarantees in this life. And it can so often feel like a cruel game of Russian roulette. But let us take control of the things within our sphere of influence and ensure we allow ourselves every chance of a happy, fulfilled life and not a lifetime plagued with regret.

Take that break. Check in on your friend. Tell your parents you love them. Eat some veggies. Go play with your kids and make that appointment and get your health checked.

Here’s to those who are no longer here with us in the physical realm, but who will always be with us in spirit.