A few years ago, a friend’s bicycle was stolen from the garage storage of her apartment building. The theft of this particular bicycle was more than material loss. It was one of the very last gifts she had gotten from her late husband. I have no words for things like that…

Stories like this serve as the motivating force as to why I light the candles I bought or have received as gifts. I eat food before they expire. I made it a goal to use the things I own at least once a year, or they will be donated or sold.

Eat that chocolate, light that candle, cross those oceans, when you still can!