Living Life to the Fullest: Embracing My Father's Lasting Legacy

Hello friends,

I'm about to do something a little different on the blog today. I'm diving deep, sharing a personal chapter of my life that's been the cornerstone of my life's mantra: "Live life to the fullest." Today is twenty six (26) years since my father's tragic passing. Yet, his teachings and memories power my every step.

Do you ever have moments in life that, no matter how many years go by, feel like they happened just yesterday? One such morning, around 6 a.m., a ringing phone left me with an inexplicable dread. Answering it, I heard my sister's voice - and somehow, just her 'hello' told me everything. My heart screamed 'No!', only to hear her confirm my worst fears. What followed was a seemingly endless flight back to Guatemala, where the shock of learning my father had actually been murdered, made my knees buckle in despair. You see, up to that point I thought my dad had passed from a heart attack.

Returning home after the funeral, I found myself submerged in a whirlpool of grief, anger, and negligence. But, as the saying goes, it's always darkest before the dawn. I began realizing that staying in this abyss of sadness wasn't what my father would've wanted for me. His life and demise taught me invaluable lessons:

The Impermanence of Emotions: Feelings, both good and bad, are fleeting. While I'll always cherish my dad's memories, I've learned to ride the emotional roller-coaster, knowing that it's okay to feel everything deeply.

In tribute to my father's legacy, I'd like to share five lessons that guide my life and often resonate in what I post on social media.

1. Life is Precious: Don't just live it, thrive and make every second worthwhile.

2. Love with Intensity: Passion isn't just for romance. It's for every project, every relationship, and every day you're granted.

3. Be a Beacon of Love: In a world that can often be cruel, let your kindness, compassion, and understanding be the change.

4.Uplift and Empower: Our stories, our trials, and our triumphs have the power to inspire. Sharing them might just be the spark someone else needs.

5. Embrace Uncertainty: Fear and comfort are the biggest adversaries of growth. Challenge them, and discover your true potential.

So, dear readers, today I want to leave you with a little nudge. Reflect on where you are and where you aspire to be. Are you stuck in a rut? Are you playing it too safe? Remember, life's clock is always ticking. Don't let fear or complacency stop you from seizing every beautiful moment. Live, love, and let every day be a testament to live life to the fullest. Make every moment count!