If I could erase one trend from history, it would be the need to please society. You get one life, yet so many people waste it chasing approval from people who won’t be there when they’re hurting and who would barely pause if you ceased to exist tomorrow. No matter how much you sacrifice, someone will always expect more, and the only person left drained is you. Be kind. Be respectful. But never let the fear of judgment dictate your choices. Live on your own terms because the people you’re trying so hard to impress will never have to live with the consequences of your life. You will.

There’s a popular belief that when you die, your brain replays the best seven minutes of your life. Whether that’s true or not, I hope those moments are filled with memories of love, courage, laughter, and a life lived on your own terms. Because the greatest tragedy isn’t dying. It’s looking back and realizing the life you lived was written by everyone except you.

~S