When I was young, my dad once said to me, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.” At first the phrase would go in one ear and out the other.

However, as I grew older and more mature, I have found it to be the first thought that pops up in my mind when I wake up. Although the past year of my life was a memorable one, I ended up losing a friend and that changed my view point on that phrase forever.

Gabby was the girl that everyone knew and loved. There was not a moment with her when I would not be crying with laughter. She brightened up everyone’s day. Even those who did not know her too well were affected. I never saw a community come so close together to honor her precious life. Gabby left the important message of making every day count on each and every one of our hearts.

Since her death, I have learned to live out her message of making every day count as I may never know when it will be my last. There is a significant amount of friends that I have lost touch with that I have reached out to, even if it is just for a simple Starbucks or breakfast trip. As Gabby’s death came around unexpectedly, I wanted to kick myself for not sending a simple text or Snapchat whenever I saw something that reminded me of her.

Gabby’s immense amount of kindness to every single person pushed me to desire to do the same. There is not a day that goes by when I do not think about her and the strong, positive effect that she left on me.

The other day I was driving with a friend who knew Gabby, who stated, “Isn’t it crazy how anything can happen to anyone at any time?”

Many thoughts and questions began to run across my mind. What mark will I leave? How will it affect the community around me? I also challenge you as a reader to think about these questions. As today is the first day of the rest of your life, it could also be your last. Although some friends may drift away, never lose focus on them. Keep in touch. You may not be the best of friends anymore, but that does not mean be stubborn and never acknowledge them again. Stop worrying about how awkward it might be to reach out, because you never know when the day might come where you just might never get to see them again. As well as connecting with friends, also be sure to live your life to the fullest. Stop being scared to go achieve your dreams.

Life is not easy, but you can accomplish what you put your mind to. I live everyday not just for myself, but for Gabby, too. I encourage you to go live your life, as today is the first day of the rest of your life.