(A few years ago we took a weekend away to brainstorm what we wanted to spend our lives doing. We ended up crafting this letter in the hope that we could remind our current, and future, selves what we think is worthy our limited minutes.

Like our lives, this letter is never in final draft form until we stop living it out.)

– – – –

Your life is unparalleled and finite; you will find it the most satisfying if you intentionally participate in it. So we commit the following guidelines to you so that you might remember, every day, the beauty and brevity of the gift you have been given.

Imagine and then act.
Aim to be fully aware in every moment.
Regularly find space to breathe.
Unplug for the day; the internet will be there tomorrow.

Laugh… a lot.

Foster connections that help you grow.
Tend those relationships and share life together.
Be vulnerable with those you trust and authentic with everyone.
Acknowledge your limitations, celebrating others’ abilities and accomplishments.

Create.
Kindle inspiration.

Live generously.
Recognize and stay within the limits of your resources.
Spend wealth on your priorities.
Passionately pursue your ideals and never give up doing so, no matter the odds.

Feel comfortable in your own skin.
Feed your mind, body, and soul enjoyably.
Food nourishes the body and thrills the taste buds – choose it wisely.

Embrace change; honor structure.
Encourage others on their own journey.
Open your mind and heart to new ideas.

Meet with one new experience every day.
Seize new opportunities when they arise.
Travel often and immerse yourself in the local cultures.
Explore and celebrate diversity.

Remember, living a good story is more important than watching one.
Death only starts the next chapter; it is not to be feared.

May you live your lives in a way that you, without hesitation, would step peacefully into the next chapter knowing you had spent well each breath you were privileged to take.

    -Us