I feel sick to my stomach hearing about the vicious attacks going on in Paris right now.  It's Friday the 13th and I could not imagine how anyone in their right mind could justify murdering scores of innocents; to rob people of their dreams and tear from others their loved ones is more monstrous than anything in this world. It's a terrifying time we live in, where someone with an insidious agenda only has to get access to a machine gun or a bomb to destroy countless lives.  I mean, these victims will never again see the beautiful colors of sunrise; some didn't know that kiss with their spouse was their last while others' eyes will never even glisten with tears as their father walks them down the aisle.
      This week for me has been school, finishing Gossip Girl, working out an hour a day, and checking the mailbox constantly to see if my mission papers have arrived.  Life is so casual, and yet we never know when it will be clipped short!  Am I just taking everything for granted?  We act as if we have a hundred years; but even if we do, that will go by so fast, and if we don't-- well then are we wasting our time?  The most terrifying thing for me is losing those I hold dear; I honestly think I would shatter if I received news that someone I loved perished, especially in such a horrendous event as today's.
    Today I am going to live the good way, calling home to hear the voice of family, enjoying memorable adventures with my sweet friends here, and graciously enjoying this beautiful world with lungs full of fresh air and an intent to do right.  I want to live in a way that I will not have flashbacks of regret but rather gratitude for every moment.  I want to appreciate those whom I call loved and use my creativity and give my everything to the God who has given me Life.
    Pray for Paris.