A Green Light to Live

This morning, I woke with gratitude. I have a green light to return to Costa Rica, a place and a people I love.

This time, the journey looks a little different. I am travelling on a new medication. It comes with new questions and new responsibilities. I need to stay out of the direct sun, watch carefully for side effects, and pay close attention to my body to be sure the dosage is correct. These are not small things, and I take them seriously. And still, I am willing to do this so that I can return to a place that brings me peace and joy.

During a recent conversation with my general physician oncologist, we discussed more than just medication. We talked about life. About the importance of living each day, until we cannot. That conversation stayed with me.

Today is the 8th day of the new year, and I am reminded of a quote by the Dalai Lama that has long guided me:

“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday, and the other is called tomorrow. Today is the right day to love, believe, do, and live.”

We often say we believe in Carpe Diem, seize the day, yet we quietly place limits on ourselves. They show up in our thoughts and our words.

But it is not the right time.

What if something goes wrong?

I will do it when things calm down.

I am too tired.

It feels selfish.

I should be more practical.

These thoughts may sound responsible, but over time, they can hold us back from fully living. Carpe Diem does not mean ignoring reality. It means preparing with care and choosing to live anyway. It means holding responsibility and joy at the same time.

So today, I offer this gentle reminder to myself and to you.

Do one thing that brings you joy.

Reach out to someone you love.

Move your body in a way that feels kind.

Take a chance you have been putting off.

Prepare thoughtfully, without letting fear take over.

We cannot change yesterday. Tomorrow is not promised.

But today is here, and today matters.

Today, I choose to live.