Saying goodbye shouldn’t be viewed as a negative thing – it doesn’t mean anything. It’s the time spent together and the memories made that do.

I’m visiting my parents in Naples one last time before the move out West, and it’s one of the first times the realization that I’m leaving has kicked in. Life as I currently know it will never be the same again. It doesn’t mean I won’t ever talk to them or visit them again, but in a matter of weeks, the daily makeup of my life will be DIFFERENT.

Think about the people in your life today. Think about what it would be like to say goodbye to those people. Think about how blessed you are to have that opportunity to know them, love them, and have spent time with them. I am so incredibly thankful for the people in my life- they all have taught me really important lessons and they’ve helped shaped who I am today. Maybe today isn’t someone’s birthday or a national holiday to appreciate them- but show your loved ones how much they matter. And reflect on all the gifts you’ve been given. And remember that not everyone is given that opportunity. Make your moments count because you never know when that will change.