Your Last Breath

Today I had the opportunity to spend time with a beloved family member of my wife as she left this world.

In the hours prior to her passing I sat alongside her bed and, at times, just watched her breathing. Each breath seemed laboured and difficult. It was a struggle. It was a fight. With each breath I realized that there might not be another.

In those moments it reminded me how lucky I am to have each breath and how we so often take each inhalation and exhalation for granted as though they are unlimited in supply.

But they aren’t.

One day they’ll run out.

So be grateful for each breath. Be grateful for each breath of those around you. Use each breath to speak words of encouragement to those around you. Use them to forgive. Use them to help others. Use them to power your body to do great things. Use them to leave a legacy.

But don’t ever take them for granted. You never know when it might be your last.