Life has a way of waking you up and shaking you at weird moments. I feel like I write about this often but what better time to write than when you’re shaken up.

Today I found out that a past co-worker of mine had lost her sister earlier this year. Her sister was driving home from the Blackhawks game, hit a median and died in the hospital an hour later. I saw pictures of her in the newspaper obituary. I had never met her but she seemed like someone I would get along with. I could picture us going for wine and sushi, sharing stories, taking a yoga class or even going to a Blackhawks game. She was beautiful and blonde. I love fellow my blondes. She was also 30 when she died.

This tragedy hit home for me not only because she was so similar to me– it hit home because she is so similar to my friends, my sister and plenty of loved ones I know. It broke my heart. I don’t think a parent should ever have to bury a child and I can’t fathom a life ending at 30.

Like I said, I don’t know her and have never met her but I feel a strange desire to learn something and change how I live to honor this young woman. I challenge you to do the same:

Be smart. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t let others drink and drive.
Tell people how you feel.
Choose happiness. Above all, choose love.
Forgive others. Forgive yourself.
If you say you’re going to do something, do it.
Make time for your family.
Be an understanding friend.
Speak kindly to others. Speak kindly to yourself.
Apologize if you’re in the wrong. Apologize even if you’re not sure if you’re in the wrong.
Treat you body better. Fuel it for life.
Smile at strangers.
Be thankful for what you have. It is probably more than most people.
Come to terms with your faults. Work on bettering yourself.
Embrace who you really are. Even if it is different than the norm, your friends, your family, etc.
Listen to more live music.
Learn a new hobby. Then teach it to someone else.
Hug more.
Laugh more.

What would you add?