“I’ll be at your high school graduation my boy!”

If only this was true.

May 27th, 2022: My life changed forever……

I’m writing this article with the intent of speaking about how important it is to value the time you have with your loved ones, and how important it is to accomplish everything you want to during the time you have. Time is the one thing that you can never take for granted. Tomorrow is never promised. I unfortunately had to learn how to live with this over the last year as I lost my grandfather. My grandfather was a vital part of me. My life. My everything. He meant the world to me.

Over the past year, one of my biggest regrets in life has been not fully valuing the time I had with my grandfather when he was here. As graduation is creeping up quickly, it’s been on my mind a lot more. My grandfather was around for every major milestone in my life. He was a big part of who I am today. 

For most seniors, graduation is an exciting time that most view as a time of celebration. I would agree with that. However, I haven’t been in that celebratory mindset. I’ve been letting my grief overshadow what should be my excitement about graduating. But, this goes back to my intention of writing this: valuing time because not everyone cherishes all opportunities.

I don’t think many people truly appreciate the time that they’re given. Some might abuse time or some might not live up fully. For instance, when in high school, it’s important that you experience all that there is to do, like prom, homecoming, spirit days, assemblies, etc. When looking back at when you’re older, it would be a shame to regret not participating in any of the activities that make high school an enjoyable experience. 

In life, it’s important to experience everything you can. My grandfather always made it a point to enjoy what life has to offer because once you get older, you won’t be able to do certain things that you would’ve been able to do when you were younger. Even when he was in his 90’s, he would still enjoy life by going to White Sox games every summer. He didn’t view his age as restrictive. He wanted to accomplish many things in his life. Which brings me to my second intention: accomplish your goals while you can.

I feel that it’s very important to set goals for yourself. You should value your abilities and your intelligence. Everyone is capable of achieving their goals, only if they try. Don’t let people make you feel less than or like you’re not good enough. For example, I’d like to become an NBA coach, which seems unrealistic, but it’s possible if I try. Achieving goals is possible if I don’t let the outside voices get inside my head. Negativity will bring anyone down and limit your ability to reach your fullest potential. We are only given such a short amount of time in life, it’s important that we accomplish our goals and reach our full potential. 

If people in your life are constantly doubting your abilities and making you feel like you can’t do something, prove them wrong. Make them feel bad for doubting you. Instead, prove to them that you’re a better person than them because you are hopeful, strong, positive and determined. 

One of many things I learned from my grandfather was to always stay positive. Obviously, in life there are tough times that can make you feel defeated. Feeling negative only makes those times harder. It will also make it tougher for the stormy cloud to leave. Positivity will carry anyone through any rough times, and will teach you to have patience. 

I hope this article has helped you and I hope you’ll remember this advice. Without guidance and support from my family, I wouldn’t have been able to make it through this last year without my grandfather. Remember, live everyday like it’s your last. Hug your family and friends, tell your loved ones you love them because one day, you won’t be able to.