Yesterday is history, tomorrow's a mystery and today is a gift, hence why it is called the present

As the longest standing member at the Haus of McMorley, (or Fort as we have so affectionately monikered it), I feel it is appropriate to contribute to this publication from our institution. Previous posts seem to be about a wide range of topics from traffic to pro-life. Waking up this Sunday morning sans hangover (much to the shigrin of Beth, I'm sure), I reflect on the changes in my own life as of late and the recent events that have happened to me that have influenced my outlook on life. It is so easy to to become obsessed with one's own problems, dilemmas and troubles thus neglecting the people or life around you. It is even easier to get caught up in what other people are judging you on and to blame yourself rather than to think logically about situations when they occur. I have been so blessed this year to be surrounded by so many wonderful people to catch me when I fall or to pull me up from the depths; to teach me how it is ok to fail and that there are friends that are true. In an attempt to stay open-minded and out of the trap of "self-absorption", I try with each day and each event that happens,  to draw meaning and a life lesson. The most recent one? This week has been full of stress from all facets of life, including, but not restricted to: cramming experiments for a project that has taken more than 2 years, the discovery of my ineligibility for major federal funding for my degree, a recent MI in the family etc. The lesson? Each moment is fleeting. I could die tomorrow (given my family's poor cardiac history). Enjoy every day to the fullest and cherish the life and people you are given. I'm sure you've heard it all before but only after you come to the realization on your own, does life become brighter, more colourful and wonderful with every breath.