For the past 45 years I have saved a poem - as a constant reminder to actually live life today, not to always wait for a time when things are "better" or "easier" or whatever. (I have no idea who might have been the original author of this piece so long ago, but I'm passing it on in case others also find it to be a good reminder about how to live life.)

Life is today—not tomorrow.
The time you must live is now.
Don't wait for some far distant future
When all things will be right somehow.

Though busy, take time for that kind deed
That you plan for another day,
For perhaps there will be no tomorrow
When you'll pass again this way.

The burdens of life may be heavy,
But don't let them block your view.
Don't wait for them all to be lifted
Before counting the joys you have too.

The good and the bad mixed together
Must be put into proper place.
Whether you find joy or sorrow,
You must stand and meet life face to face.

So listen to laughter of children,
Stop a minute to watch them at play,
Give a smile and a kind word to someone
And you'll find it will brighten your day.

Be aware of each moment's small pleasure,
The little things make up the whole.
Fill your hours with bright shining minutes
As you search for life's ultimate goal.

For more writing along this line, see the list of all our articles about Rethinking your Life.