Today, I went to school on my period. My back and head hurt. I had the worst cramps you could ever imagine. Everybody at school was being extra annoying. I just wanted to tape everybody’s mouths together so they could all shut up. I didn’t want to be at school, let alone even have to see some people’s faces. I just had a strong dislike for everyone up until my sister picked me up after school. 

I told her about my horrible day. She responds by saying, “Grandpa died.” I just went blank. I couldn’t process what she said in my mind. I knew he’s been sick for a while, but I guess I never really realized that he could be gone any time. I wasn’t close to my Grandfather, but when I did visit him in the Philippines, he was just a bright ray of sunshine. He smiled at the littlest things and always told me I was beautiful. My Grandpa had a warm, inviting smile that made you feel like everything was okay. He looked at my cousins and I as if we were the most beautiful sight he’s ever laid his eyes on. He made sure I was protected and never alone. 

His death made me more appreciative of life. The smallest things in life should never be taken for granted. People you see at school that you barely talk to or don’t even like are significant in other people’s lives. And if you took the chance to actually get to know them or fix a problem between you two, you could have another amazing person in your life. Learn to appreciate and love what you have and stop complaining about what you don’t have. It’s not God’s fault, He just has a different plan.