Monday, December 2, 2013

Three Things I'm Reminded of by Paul Walker's Death


Death is never an easy subject to deal with no matter how you see it. It's no easier to deal with whether it be sudden or dreadfully anticipated by a terminal illness. It even has a way of impacting you when you've never actually met the person who's died. Case in point: Paul Walker's untimely death this past weekend.

It's safe to say that Paul Walker was known around the world to many as Brian O'Connor of the 'Fast & Furious' movie franchise. Not only was he super easy on the eyes but he was genuinely a good soul from all accounts told in the media. Naturally, news of his death sent shock waves this past Saturday as the world learned of the details surrounding his death. As the world tries to come to grips with his untimely passing, here are three things that I'm reminded of as I try to make sense of something that far exceeds human understanding:

1. Nothing is ever guaranteed. Not even your next breath. So, be grateful to see another day no matter what the circumstances are. Not everyone gets to live to fight another day. 

2. You can't spend today worrying about tomorrow. Everyone has things they worry about whether it's their health or the health of a loved one, financial worries, or relationship woes. It's really easy to get consumed by those worries, too, to a point where you're not even enjoying today because you're too busy worrying about what's going to happen tomorrow. I know I'm guilty of this and Paul Walker's death has reminded me that life is to short to be wasted on the 'what-ifs' of this world.  We have to enjoy every moment as if it were our last. 

3. We must live life purposefully. If you consider how long this world has been in existence, our time on earth is relatively limited in the grand scheme of things. For that reason, we must make our time here on earth worth while and live it with purpose. Paul Walker died doing what he loved: riding fast cars, spending time with his daughter and giving back. He had just left a charity event, held by his organization Reach Out Worldwide, which he reportedly attended with his daughter. Anyone who is quoted for telling others not to cry for them if they die doing what they loved is undoubtedly an inspiration to the world and Paul Walker was just that. At least we can find solace in that. There's no doubt that he left this world a better place by his numerous acts of kindness and generosity. To that end, in honor of Paul Walker and others like him, let's vow to make a conscious effort to do more of what we love with the people we love and do our part to leave behind a better world for the next generation.

My prayers and condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. 

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4 

Dear Ositos, 

As a parent, I wish I could shield you from all the sadness and losses that you will eventually face in life but, unfortunately, I can't. Death is an inevitable part of life whether it's a loved one, a pet, or the death of a relationship. I advise you to lean on the Lord during these difficult times and not on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Allow yourself to grieve, in your own way, and always know that you are never alone. Above all else, know the difference between existing and living. There are no rehearsals in life, mis tesoros. You only get one chance at it so dare to be different, be courageous enough to take chances and never let anyone talk you out of being great. 

Los quiero tanto,


Your Mami-Bear

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