Journal: A Life Well-Lived

"Outskirts of Paris near Montmarte" by Vincent van Gogh. Watercolor, pencil, pen and ink, pastel, and gouache on laid paper. Paris: Summer, 1887.

Style is everything, but your life's style (referring to lifestyle) is where the true substance lies. It is about being a well-rounded, cultured individual. There's too many repetitive guides on how to wear clothes; how to wear this with that; how to dress for this occasion; what basics you need in your wardrobe, what ways of dress will distinguish you from the next person. All of this is lovely, but truly being a person focused on the finer and more important parts of life adds three times as much individuality and refinement. The simplest thing, such as being a passionate lover of life, makes you appreciate what's around you and what God has already blessed you with. Clothes do not make the man, but his philosophy on life and how he decides to go about living it does. That's what we as individuals should look for in a person more than what they paid for a pair of bespoke wool trousers.


There's too many style guides and not nearly as many important coverings on how to live a full, potential, quality-filled life.


Build a solid relationship with God. I'd never be the religion extremist forcing God upon everyone I come across, but I sincerely think putting God first before every situation and obstacle in your life can provide an outcome greater than what you'd expect. Simple things like praying every morning just to humbly acknowledge Him letting Him know you're appreciative can determine the type of day you may have. I doubt if anyone will get past those pearly gates because of their bank statement, a fancy timepiece, how successful one becomes, and how well one's clothes fit.


Put family first. Never neglect family. Oftentimes in our lives, we get so tied up in our own success that we may forget to call an aunt, uncle, cousin, or any other relative just to see how they are doing. One short phone call can make their day. Being family-oriented is one of the best things in the world, because at the end of the day, they'll be all you have left. Look out for family.


Love slowly—your God, your family, your significant other, your friends. Never take this four-letter word for granted and don't throw the three-word phrase around if you don't meant it. Love is a precious thing I think we should all take advantage of. Truly loving someone and caring for them the correct way can add value to a person's life. I'd be the first to let the world know I love my parents, family, Des Parker, and my friends with all of my heart. Loving slowly and passionately allows one to take their time through their day-to-day actions. Show love. 


Be a friend. While you can't go around calling and claiming everyone as a friend, building organic relationships with people matters. A friend will create and make time for you. A friend cares about your well-being. A true friend wants to see you succeed and they'll go out of their way to help you do so.


Eat amazing and healthy foods. Your body is truly your temple and remaining consciously aware of every piece of food inserted into your temple matters. The point of eating is nourishment. Eat to live, please not the other way around. There's too many choices to choose from when it comes to good food. Learn to cook; I truly believe it's an art form. Never settle for the "junk."


Have a burning desire to live passionately. Live life with passion. If you don't have passion for something, stay away from it. Love everything you're involved with. It lessens the stress and attitude of not doing something enjoyable. When it is all said and done, live your life the way you want, do the things that make you happiest, and commit yourself to your passions daily.


*In no way is this a guide on how to live. I simply wrote about things I genuinely care about. I have passion for life and I'm thankful to be alive.