a note on feeling alive.

I live for cotton candy sunsets,

laughter from the soul,

reflections on this thing we call life,

staying warm by the flame of friendship,

reminders that there's more to life than this...

than us...

we are part of something greater than ourselves

I live for that meal at the hole in the wall restaurant

that makes you shake your head because it's so good.

I live for getting dressed up to go to dinner

to catch up with a friend visiting my city.

I live for the playful laughter of my nieces and nephews

as they run and play.

I live for seeing someone smile who hasn't had much reason to in a very long time.

I live for someone telling me that something I told them inspired them, likely having forgotten what I even said, being glad that God chose to use me.

I live for the release of emotions that may

look like crying my eyes out in my room, or in the midst of strangers,

or through dying my hair, exploring the city by myself, or even taking myself on a date.

I live for the rooftop experiences of watching the sunrise

and hearing the bustle of the city begin.

I live for hugs... that soak me up and make me feel

safe and loved.

I live for that moment after a depressing season that reminds me that everything will be okay.

I live for those random 2 hour phone calls from a friend I haven't heard from in a while.

I live for the dance sessions after a great workout or singing my favorite jams as I clean my apartment.

I live for my close ones affirming me because there's no doubt in my mind that they mean every word and so it must be true.

This is a life worth living.