Today, a Friend Just Died

Today, a friend just died in a vehicular accident. He was going on a solo ride when he met his untimely demise. He is still young and promising. He just graduated with his master's degree, just landed a teaching job at a prominent engineering university, and is preparing to settle down in marriage. He is a man oozing with ideas. He has a lot of things under his sleeves.

We were not close but we had many encounters. He is one of my classmates in some subjects. He is dependable and friendly. He always wears a smile and loves adventure. At least that's what I know about him. He is well-loved by his close friends. 

I write this piece with a heavy heart. Hearing reports of untimely death makes me realize how fleeting our lives are. We are but mists who are here now and gone tomorrow. I feel sad. I feel sad for his parents who have high hopes and dreams for him. I feel sad for his brother, who was also my classmate. They sure had a great time growing up. I feel sad for his girlfriend who I know as well. Their plans will now be forever parked. I feel sad for his friends. I feel sad for everyone who cares for him.

My mind is filled with questions: 

Why did he take a solo ride? He usually rides with friends and for sure, they will make time for him if only he asked. 

What were his last words? 

Did he know today's gonna be his last?

I don't know. I can only ask. I can only speculate. Only God has the answers. What I have right now are realizations.

We are living on a borrowed life

Our life is not our own. Any minute, it can be taken away from us. So we have to make use of our lives wisely. Let us not waste it pursuing things that have no significant, eternal value. Let us make sure that give thoughts to our actions and we live our days purposefully.

Our time is limited

It's a big blessing if we reach the age of 70 or 80. Some die young, some even at the peak of their youth. Every day that passes is another day less our timetable. We must live our lives thinking that it has an end. So in our lifetime, we need to do what needs to be done. 

We have to make our life worthwhile

Tell your parents and loved ones how much you love them. Never miss the opportunity. Actions mean something but words also convey a powerful message. A life worth living is a life not marked with regrets and what-ifs. Do yourself a favor by reaching out to your friends and loved ones and fill your heart with love. Show grace, sow grace. 

Be more emphatic

Some people are fighting battles we are not aware of. Let us practice empathy every time we meet and deal with people. Position yourself in their place. Imagine yourself dealing with the kind of pressures they face from day to day. This way we will stop thinking better than others. We will understand them on a more personal level. We give life to them. 

Speak life, always

The world is full of curses and death. Let us be an agent of love and life. Instead of cursing, utter prayers. Instead of rage, practice understanding. Instead of revenge, forgiveness. Life is meant to be enjoyed and not to harbor bitterness. 

The Bible is telling us that it is better to go in the house of mourning than in the house of feasting. This is the reason why - we learn more from one's death than in festivities and celebrations. Death brings us closer to ourselves and makes us realize what matters most in life. 

Hi, I am Marts! I am a writer, and aside from my stint here in read.cash, I also have my own blog - martsvalenzuela.com. I appreciate it if you pay me a visit! I plan on growing my readership as I learn to improve my craft and journey towards my passion to write and publish books that add value to people.

Let's rock!