Remember when we were in 4th grade and wanted to be in 8th grade so bad? And once freshman year of high school came, you just wanted to go to senior prom and graduate already?

All of us have been guilty of acting like this at some point in our life, and don’t try to argue with me on this one. Even though school seemed to go by so slowly while you were in elementary and middle school, time really does fly by and you really don’t realize it until reality hits and it’s too late. If I could back to elementary school days, I would. No types of drama except the once in a blue moon, “Who took the snack from my Lunchables?” No bills to worry about, no worrying about the future… just worrying about living in the NOW and having FUN.

But, looking back on what I miss most about being young, I realized, I can still do certain things I thought I could only do as a kid. So okay, I can’t escape paying bills, but I can still continue to live my life in the NOW and take advantage of what life has to offer me and just have FUN. I know it sounds cliche, but you really do only live once, so live your life to the fullest. Life truly is a gift, and even though some days may be rougher than others, don’t take it for granted, because there are people who have been cheated out of full and healthy lives. So if anything, live for those who are no longer with us.

There will be times in your life where you just wish you could press a fast forward button. But, you have to realize that everyday is important because everyday we learn something new, not just about the world, but about ourselves. Everyday we are given a metaphorical building block, that over the years builds our beautiful metaphorical palace. Every good and bad experience builds that palace, and it builds it to form a palace that was meant for you and only you. You must begin to realize that shortcuts through life will never allow you the same results as if you go through the good and bad times, day by day.

Embrace every little detail of your life. Embrace your morning routine. Embrace that dance you do while putting on your pants. Embrace the way you sing by yourself in the car. Every little thing you do and how you do it is based on your past. Everything in life has a cause and effect, so take time to recognize why you do what you do and realize that it was because of what has happened over TIME.

If you aren’t already, learn to be grateful for what you have and instead of wishing for things to be different. Don't wish your years away and never take a day for granted.