Any one who knows me has heard me say, You just never know what will happen when you walk out that door in the morning! Generally, it has been uttered as a hopeful boost for single friends. But lately it has taken on a new meaning for me.

One of my best friends was in a serious automobile accident just days ago, that she is lucky to have survived. On a mountain pass, she was sandwiched between a truck and a run away motor home. Her brand new Honda CRV was totaled, but she walked away.

Another best friend has had a serious illness, that as of yet is undiagnosed. And I have recently learned of the passing of some others who have been in my life or those of my family.

It got me to thinking about those whom I’ve lost through the years…a high school friend, my brother-in-law, my father, my grandparents, a former client, another friend. I have often said, You don’t know when will be the last time.

In recent years, celebrating life’s special moments has become extremely important to me… loved one’s birthdays, retirements, anniversaries (of any kind), rewarding yourself for accomplishing a goal or simply that the sun is shining after weeks of fog and rain. It adds richness to life, acknowledges friends and family, and yourself as well. We all tend to get a little self absorbed as we tackle the important (and not so) day-to-day things in our lives. Planning a celebration for another gives us an opportunity to focus on someone else, creates a sense of anticipation, and tells you, and the one/s you are celebrating, how much you love them.

And, since none of us know when will be the last time, it is important to be brave enough to say what you need to say while you have the opportunity to do it. Many of us are shy with that kind of intimacy, but when you or a loved one walks out that door or signs off that ‘phone call, you may not have another chance. Do it for them. Do it for yourself.