Things happen for a reason.

When I think about life, I see an endless life of potential. A life with the mysteries of why unfortunate events happen to good people. Yet, a recent reminder echoes in my mind, “things happen for a reason.” It’s surreal to realize that I wrote about grief just 2 weeks before my life changed without notice. My Poppop unexpectedly passed away. He was one of the biggest role models in my life. He was the foundation of my family. It was like my grieving process was starting even before he was gone. It’s crazy to think that he reviewed that piece and gave feedback but is now the person I think of when I re-read it over and over. This piece is now etched in me, marking a new chapter in the roller coaster of emotions, a haunting date I add to my mind that I’ll carry forever. While I navigate loss, grief, and heartbreak, I understand that in each chapter, strength grows. Strength doesn’t mean an absence of tough days; it’s okay to cry and release your emotions. Scream if you must, all your feelings are valid. Keep persevering. The pain will never go away, but it will become manageable as time goes on. Take one day at a time because “things happen for a reason…”