We all take life for granted. Unfortunately, it is a very easy thing to do, to look over. We see weeks, months, and years ahead of us…so we do not take the time to appreciate what we have each and every day. We skim over our own life stories. We summarize what we have and who we have it with. 

This needs to change. We need to smile more. Hurt less. Embrace love. Prevent evil. Welcome selflessness. Overcome greed. Overall, just cherish life and what it has to offer. —It is all easier said than done, but it all starts with trying. 

…and once you start trying, you are already making a difference. 

these heart-shaped bruises
they tend to heal with time
but the more they hurt you
the harder it is to climb

they range in different pains
colors from blue to black
once they form, they stay 
hurtful words can’t be taken back

when the wound is new and fresh
it aches in places that never existed
it’s because the heart-shaped bruise
has thorns that are tangled and twisted

but eventually, the pain will fade
the injury will slowly go away
the aching heart will stop crying
but the emotion will always stay

even though they hurt the mind and soul
heart-shaped bruises come and go
let’s pray that they lessen with some time
so more love and happiness may begin to grow

— alina lee