Only the Good Die Young

Sunday night, around 11:30, a boy from my high school passed away after a terrible car accident.

By the next morning, and really that night, my Facebook and Twitter were completely filled with stories of encouragement and love toward the friends of Nate and the Short family.

Nate, went to my Jr. high and High school, we knew who each other were and hung out through mutual friends a few times but really did not know each other well.

However, the minute I heard that something was wrong and he needed a miracle, I felt the need to put him in my prayers.

And it was very evident that the rest of Brighton High School felt the same.

It didn't matter if you knew him or just knew of him, you posted something.

You made sure that your voice was heard and you would be there if anyone needed.

It was amazing to see the posts from some of his best friends and how much he meant to them.

Everyone commented on his good heart and contagious smile.

His passing was too soon.

He was much too young to die.

But God has a plan for all of us.

So far, this plan has brought together a bunch of previous and current Bengals who are all in full support of each other.

I love that I was apart of something like that.

But this has really been on my mind as a reminder to really be with those around you.

Get to know them while you can.

Tell them how you feel, listen to how they feel.

Take time to care.

Appreciate everyone and what they do for you.

Life is too short to be taken advantage of.

And sometimes it just takes a rude awakening to be reminded of that.

So from now on,

 Be Grateful

 for today,

for yesterday, 

for tomorrow,

for your trials,

for your blessings,

for your family,

for your friends,

for your enemies,

for your belongings,

for your knowledge,

for your life here.

Because you don't get to take it with you.

May you rest in Paradise Nate, I know that you are watching over everyone here. You are an angel to the rest of us here on Earth but you will never be forgotten. 

Spend time with those you love today, in any way you can.

Life gets busy, but don't let that distract you from what is really important.