“There is no real ending. It’s just the place where you stop the story.” ― Frank Herbert

There will be a last time for everything. Everything will end.

A last time you pick up your kids and carry them around.

A last time you hug a friend.

A last time you pet your dog or cat.

A last time you smile at a stranger.

A last time you hold hands.

A last time you feel the sun on your face.

A last time you feel the grass under your feet.

A last time you smell the salt of the ocean.

A last time you hear laughter.

A last time you laugh.

A last time you read a book.

A last time you see the stars.

A last kiss.

A last time you say I love you.

A last time you take a breath.

Everything will end.

But there is also a first time for everything.

A first breath.

A first day.

A first smile.

A first step.

A first word.

A first tooth.

A first hug.

A first kiss.

A first trip.

A first experience.

A first feeling.

A first love.

Everything has a beginning and an ending.

Today is a beginning — a first.

Yesterday was an ending — a last.

Today is the day to focus on the firsts instead of the lasts.

Today is an opportunity to start over and create new firsts. To find what you’ve been looking for. To live instead of merely exist!

If you are reading this, TODAY IS A BLESSING. Many experienced their last times today. So take advantage of the blessing you have received.

Jeff Barton is a writer, ultra-runner, lover of books and zombies, a practitioner of positive thinking, and most importantly, a dad. Living and loving life one day at a time. You can find him at jeffthewriter.com and jefftherunner.com.

Image courtesy of S Migaj.