Marina M.
If you’re reading this, do it all.
If you’ve ever lost a loved one, you probably have experienced feeling the need to live and do more because death is something that puts everything into perspective. At least it did for me.
On January 3rd, 2024, my incredible Uncle Danny lost his battle with cancer. Coming from a close Italian family, this loss was heartbreaking. It was also deeply confusing. Everything happened so fast. The aftermath of my Uncle’s death was very difficult to process. I still find myself struggling to understand how a young, healthy 47-year-old could get sick and pass away in just seven months.
I will miss my Uncle longer than I was able to know him, and that is something that deeply upsets me, but how lucky am I to have experienced loving someone so much that I will always miss them.
This loss changed how I view life. Perspective is everything, and here are some things I’ve come to truly believe:
Let it go. Life is too short to hold grudges or carry emotional baggage. Do it for yourself and your happiness.
Live a life that empowers you. Whatever that may mean.
You can always start again.
There is a lot that we can’t control in life, but what’s meant for you will not pass you by.
Trust that what’s ahead will always be greater than what you’ve left behind.
I recently came across a post that said, “There is someone your age, experiencing their last day on Earth, wishing they had the time you do.” That reminder stuck with me. So, to whoever may be reading this, go on a solo trip or do something spontaneous. Who cares? There is so little that we can control in life, so why not take control of the few things we can. I hope you let yourself do more than you ever thought you were capable of. I know this sounds cliché, but life is short. So do it all.
Marina M., Syracuse University
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