Intention, meaning, aim; Persistence, resolve; Intend, set sights on; ambition, aspiration, desire, determination, direction, function, goal, idea, objective, plan, principle, project, reason, scheme, scope, view, wish.

These last few weeks have been an awakening for me, making me realize that life is fragile and precious, but also has an end. These last few weeks, I have lost a beloved pet, a brother-in-law, and a sister.

There is always an end to the greener seasons. The lowly plants, such as grass and flowers, show us that everything dies in the heat of the day and at the end of the season. Similarly, our lives must end when winter comes and calls us to another plane of existence. It is my hope that my loved ones have gone to a place they desire for a time, and maybe come back in the spring to another, more fulfilling life, one with a meaningful purpose and one that brings hope and joy to another family.

It’s moments like these that make me contemplate the destination of my life. I ask myself: Have my dreams been fulfilled? Have all of my experiences led me to my expectations of what life has been on this timeline? Did I fulfill my mission?  Have I lived my life with intention so that I have fulfilled my purpose, or do I have much more to give? I am determined to understand why I was put on this planet and why I was a part of this family. I haven’t always been the great communicator with my family, and I have hopes they understand that didn’t mean I wasn’t a part of them. My family made me who I am. I hope they fully completed their purpose in life before the end, and I wish them well in whatever they may become in the next life.

In Michelle Obama’s book The Light We Carry, she states: “Someday we will look back at this time we’re now in. We will view it from a different historical perch… what we will make of this time, what will feel ancient…Which stories will get told? What changes will we have managed to make?”  And “We have to be able to envision what’s possible…Every latent dream awakens only when someone is glad for it.”

So I listen when family or friends reach out. I acknowledge their thoughts and our differences and love everyone for who they are at this point in their lives. Perhaps that is my ultimate purpose. Perhaps just being there when someone needs me is what I have been put on this earth for. So, like Mrs. Obama, I want to stay vigorous, humble, and empathetic, and do the best I can for others. I want to keep perspective and understand the history of my past as my present self. I want to love my family for who they are, even with our differences. I hope they can do the same for me.

Love goes out to all of you today, family, and I hope that your tomorrow will be better.