A Million Little Pieces Of My Mind

Thanks to the Internet, a poem attributed to Chilean poet and Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda called Dying Slowly went viral in 2000, nearly 30 years after his death. However, Magdalena Edwards, a Brazilian writer, claimed authorship of the verses, providing evidence that the poem closely resembled her work in Portuguese titled A Morte Devagar (To Death Slowly), which was published in 2000. However, no matter who wrote it (Edwards!), it is a moving reminder to embrace life fully, break free from routine, and savor every moment.

You start dying slowly
If you do not travel,
If you do not read,
If you do not listen to the sounds of life,
If you do not appreciate yourself.

You start dying slowly
When you kill your self-esteem;
When you do not let others help you.

You start dying slowly when
you become a slave to your habits, 
walking everyday on the same paths…

If you do not change your routine,
wear different colors or 
do not speak to those you don't know…

You start dying slowly if you avoid passion and its turbulent emotions, 
those that make your eyes glisten and your heart beat fast.

You start dying slowly if you do not change your life 
when you are not satisfied with your job, 
or with your love, 
or with your surroundings.

If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain,
If you do not go after a dream,
If you do not allow yourself,
at least once in your lifetime,
to run away from sensible advice…

You are dying slowly.

Living well into old age requires attention to several key aspects of life. It's essential to prioritize travel, exploring new places, and experiencing the world, as this broadens our perspectives and enriches our lives. Nourishing our minds through reading (and good movies and audiobooks count!) is equally important, as literature provides endless opportunities for growth and learning. Maintaining self-appreciation and valuing oneself are crucial for preserving self-esteem and overall well-being. Breaking free from the monotony of routine helps keep life exciting and prevents stagnation. Embracing our passions and allowing ourselves to experience vibrant emotions adds color and joy to our days. Finally, taking risks and pursuing our dreams, despite the uncertainty, ensures that we live a fulfilling and adventurous life.

On the other hand…