For Kristen and Emily

I want you to know in all ways

just how loved and missed you are.

The distance that divides us 

is merely land.

There will be greater distances

one day, but not today.

I am thinking of what 

I should say.

Be good, be kind, 

to yourselves and others

in all ways.

It won't be easy but try.

There will be days and nights

that will cause you to think

you should give up.

The darkness will bathe you

at those times.

Bear it, endure it, 

and let it mold you

into someone 

stronger and wiser.

Your strength

will be revealed to you

in this way.

Strive for perfection

but know none of us

can ever fully attain it.

It's ok to not be perfect.

Learn to be yourselves.

Wear different guises

at different times.

Some will stick,

some won't but that's ok.

You're loved no matter what.

Don't allow yourselves to hate

without depth.

Your time and energy 

is too precious to waste

on such negativity.

In place of anger or hatred

create art, or involve yourselves

in helping others.

Push back the darkness

with kindness and creativity.

If it feels hopeless 

do it all the same.

You are the beacon of light

for yourselves and others.

Learn every day.

To learn and educate yourselves

is far more than merely

what we are taught in school.

Observe others. Learn from their mistakes.

Make your own mistakes and learn from them.

Let no moment be wasted.

Allow yourselves to fully inhabit the present.

What does that mean?

Listen. See. Hear. 

Every moment is a gift.

Every moment is the only moment.

If the past haunts you

know it has passed.

If the future troubles you

know it is not yet here.

If the present troubles you

know that it will pass.

Always prepare but know

that everything and everyone

is subject to change without notice.

Be able to adjust at a moment's notice.

Some of life's greatest adventures

will begin in this way.

Know that not everything 

will be known to you.

Allow for mystery and wonder

to be part of your life.

Go to the beach, close your eyes,

and listen to the waves.

Go to the forest, close your eyes,

and listen to the wind in the trees.

Go to the desert, close your eyes,

and listen.

Those who loved you most dearly

when you were born

will most likely not be the same

as those who love you

when we meet on the other shore.

Learn to let things go.

Learn that holding on 

can be the thing that hurts us most.

Laugh every day. Laugh the kind

of laughter that makes you gasp for air.

Remember that so much of life is play.

Be joyful.

Take only what you need.

Give the rest away.

Be kind.

Be kind.

Be kind.

I love you.