Marisa DeMarco

But what if time was only viewed as a structure of organization? Perhaps it could ease the sense of urgency, but could allow us to grow and expand into our highest potential on our own accord. Of course this is not to devalue time’s importance and universal use, but rather merely highlighting its linear form.

The mind is incredibly powerful. It has the ability to learn, absorb, analyze, process, and reflect while guiding us to make simple and complex decisions on a daily basis.

Although I developed a successful career, I felt void as I missed out on the simple beauties and pleasures of everyday life; conversations with family members, enjoying a Sunday brunch with friends, admiring the beautiful collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and a long-term relationship dissolved.

All we need to do is let it open up and unfold naturally and the “why” will no longer matter.

“You know, Marisa, that solutions to many of life’s problems come directly from the lines in a book?”

I am grateful to be alive to appreciate every day of my life.

Nowadays, we have many choices — at times too many whether it be with various partners, job possibilities, studies, or simply choosing a book to read, a playlist to listen to, or a dinner entrée while dining out. We’ve also become accustomed to keeping one foot in while having the other foot out.

Lucina asked, “Silvio, have I ever said I love you?” With a gentle smile and a shaking of his head, “No,” he replied. “But do you know that I love you?” “Of course.”

In a general sense, our partner may believe that he/she is showing and expressing love, but it’s in a language that we perhaps don’t understand because it seems foreign and confusing.

As he turned to face my grandmother in preparation of administering her medication, he realized that his beloved wife had gently passed away in her sleep. It soon became clear to him that it was indeed her light that she left behind as her final message of love.

My best friend, Matthew, refers to my golden brick moment as the one that turned my life upside down at the age of 26. My road “under construction” used to be countless hours of traffic on the 59th Street Bridge and L.I.E.

Eventually, the stacks start to diminish, the space becomes larger and uncluttered, and more light shines through the window that was once was covered up.