(18, WA, USA) Maira - Live In The Moment

I always wanted to be like the big kids, and seeing High School Musical Three set my expectations for graduation. Ever since I can remember, I always said, "I can’t wait to grow up, I can’t wait to move out, I can’t wait to be on my own," aspiring and idealizing a life I would eventually live. It wasn’t until this year that I realized I didn't want to grow up any faster. Leaving familiarity behind is a daunting task. All of us are moving on into the real world, and being scared of what lies ahead is a normal emotion. Whether you have meticulously planned out your coming years or are going with the flow, I want you to remember this quote:

As John Lennon said, “Life is what happens to you while you are busy making other plans.”

Living that life and enjoying the time we have with the people around us while it is happening is a lesson I may have learned a little too late, but it is one I urge you all to embrace. So don’t spend all your time worrying about the future and enjoy the moments as they come and take everything in stride. Enjoy the memories you can create today instead of the ones you will have months or even years from now. Cherish every smile, laugh, and memory you can share with those around you right now instead of venturing far into your future. The present is a gift that we all should take the time to cherish.