Life can be challenging. Every person will all face tough and in some cases what may seem to be impossible situations or decisions. In many cases those impossible situations are out of our control - things that happened to us or those we love. While we cannot control those things, we are in complete control of how we react. We can melt down, run away, or in some cases blow up, or we can take some time to breathe, think and know negative reactions may only escalate an already intense situation.

I offer you several of my experiences along with thoughts on life. Some serious, literally life-threatening, and others simple things with big consequences. Each reflection challenges you to consider your own experiences and provides opportunities for you to become the best person you may be.

So I encourage you to reflect, slow down, and breathe. Take a moment to think of ways to help, to de-escalate, to "light candles" for someone who may need your light. Be that light for them and maybe yourself, always, everyday.