In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to become preoccupied with “what ifs” and dreams of alternate realities. We imagine different versions of ourselves, living in different worlds, perhaps with different faces and bodies. But here’s the truth: this life, this face, this body—it’s all we have. There’s no parallel universe where things are different. This is our reality, and it’s time we embrace it fully.
As an aspiring author, I’ve often found myself lost in the realms of imagination, crafting stories of other worlds and possibilities. While creativity is a beautiful gift, it can sometimes lead us to detach from our own lives, yearning for something beyond our reach. But the stories we create are meant to inspire us to live more deeply, not to escape from our own existence.
So, let’s ground ourselves in the present. Make yourself a cup of coffee, feel the warmth of the mug in your hands, and savor each sip. Plan a picnic, even if it’s in your own backyard, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being outdoors. Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read and lose yourself in its pages, not as an escape, but as a way to enrich your understanding of the world.
Reach out to your loved ones. Kiss them, hold them close, and let them know how much they mean to you. Send that text you’ve been putting off; sometimes, a few words can make a world of difference. Hug your siblings, cherish the bond you share, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
This is the life we’ve been given. It’s filled with imperfections, challenges, and uncertainties, but it’s also brimming with beauty, love, and endless possibilities. Don’t let the allure of “maybe in another universe” prevent you from fully engaging with the here and now. Sit with your reality, face it head-on, and find joy in the mundane.
As I continue my journey as a writer, I remind myself that the most compelling stories are those that reflect the truths of our own lives. By embracing our reality, we not only enrich our personal experiences but also infuse our creative endeavors with authenticity and depth.
So, let’s live this life wholeheartedly. After all, this is all we’re going to get.
Surviving on coffee and chaos. – Catherine
Catherine Croft 