Stay close to anything that makes you glad you are alive

Life is a fleeting journey, filled with moments that define our existence. In the midst of responsibilities, routines, and the constant rush of time, it is easy to lose sight of the things that truly make us feel alive. Yet, if one looks closely, there are always experiences, places, and people that awaken something deep within—a sense of joy, purpose, and fulfillment that reminds us why we are here. Staying close to such things is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for a life well lived.

There is an undeniable magic in being near the things that bring genuine happiness. It could be the embrace of a loved one, the warmth of their laughter resonating in the air, or the quiet comfort of their presence. Love, in all its forms, has the power to anchor us to the present moment, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of connection. Whether it is family, friends, or even the companionship of a pet, these relationships offer an unspoken reassurance that we are not alone in this vast world. They remind us that in the grand scheme of things, it is not success or material wealth that defines happiness, but rather the simple joy of being seen, heard, and cherished.

Beyond relationships, there is an undeniable joy in following one's passions. The spark of creativity, the thrill of a new adventure, or the satisfaction of mastering a skill—all these experiences make life feel meaningful. For some, it is the act of creating, whether through music, writing, painting, or any other form of expression that turns emotions into something tangible. For others, it is the excitement of discovery—traveling to new places, meeting new people, or diving into the depths of knowledge to learn something new. The heart beats faster when one is engaged in something they love, and in those moments, time seems to stretch, making every second richer and fuller.

Nature, too, has a way of reminding us of the sheer miracle of existence. The sight of the sun setting over the ocean, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, the sound of waves crashing rhythmically against the shore, or the simple pleasure of walking barefoot on grass—these moments reconnect us with the world in its purest form. The natural world, with its unfiltered beauty, serves as a reminder that life is not just about deadlines and obligations, but about experiencing the wonder that surrounds us. Whether it is the crisp mountain air, the scent of blooming flowers, or the stillness of a forest, nature has a way of grounding us, urging us to slow down and just be.

Music, too, has an almost magical effect, transporting us to different places within ourselves. A single melody can evoke memories, stir emotions, and make the heart swell with an inexplicable sense of joy. It has the power to heal, to uplift, and to remind us of the moments that define our journey. Whether it is dancing to a song that makes the soul come alive or sitting in stillness as a melody washes over, music has an undeniable ability to make life feel more vibrant.

Then there is the beauty of small moments—acts of kindness, the warmth of sunlight on the skin, the taste of a favorite meal, the thrill of laughter shared with a friend, or the comfort of a familiar book. These seemingly insignificant details are what weave together the fabric of a meaningful life. They remind us that happiness does not always come from grand achievements, but from the ability to appreciate the present and find joy in the little things.

To stay close to what makes you glad to be alive is to cultivate a life that is rich with meaning and joy. It is a conscious choice to seek out the things that make your heart race, your soul sing, and your spirit soar. It means letting go of what drains you and embracing what nourishes you. It is about living in a way that, at the end of the day, allows you to look back and say, "Yes, this was a life worth living."