The Temporary Nature of Life

A new year is about to begin. I am in a completely different place from where I was this time last year. Here I am, living back in Florida, which is something I never thought I would do. But if I have learned anything in these past two months back in Clermont, it's that I can be happy and at peace anywhere.  Not that I've felt particularly peaceful - 70% of the time I'm depressed and anxious. There have been many sweet moments though with friends and family. Those moments I know I will hold in my heart for the rest of my life.

I saw this quote on Instagram today, and it really struck me and helped pull me out of the usual morning depression I could feel coming on: 

"Believe me when I tell you that everything is temporary. Everything. There's not a thing in the world that will not change, including you." 

It was a reminder that I needed. Someday soon, I'm not sure when, I'll be leaving Florida again, off on an adventure that I can only guess at. I have many ideas and plans for my future, but ultimately it's up to my Higher Power. As is everything. *The only thing that I have to decide is what to do with the time that I am given. 

I think about that a lot, particularly when I wrestle with what to do and what to say when situations pop up in my life. Every day is different, and my problems and triumphs vary. But really, ultimately, all I have to do is decide whether I am going to act with courage or in fear. I do a lot of both. I suppose that is the human condition. 

Today, with my future seeming uncertain and yet set in stone at the same time, I am doing my best to be present in the moment. Because this day, this part of my life, will never come again. 

The fact that everything is temporary really makes everything more beautiful, doesn't it? What do you think? How do you deal with and accept the temporary nature of all things?  


*That's a quote from Lord of the Rings, by the way. Can't take credit for that gem.