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Day of The Dead

Life and Death for the over forty crowd
For those of us that have managed to live for over 40 years or more, an interesting and somewhat morbid thing begins to happen to us. We become increasingly aware of the reality of mortality and just how precious our time here on Earth is. Perhaps this semi age related milestone helps us bypass the trivial things that distract us from living our remaining years to the fullest.

Today many celebrate Dia de Los Muertos (day of the dead). Traditionally a holiday celebrated throughout Mexico and around the world in other cultures. This holiday focuses on the gathering of family and friends to pray for, remember and celebrate loved ones that have died. Now, I'm not one to read the obituary column, but plenty of my over forty clients are. I guess it's like a scorecard; as long as we're not on the list I suppose we're still winning.

The unfortunate truth is that life comes with no guarantees but with one exception: death. It's a harsh reality, death. We take life for granted so easily that we sometimes forget that there is an ultimate finish line. It will happen, you know. However, the way we choose to live the years between birth and death are entirely up to us. We can make them glorious or dismal.

But for today, I will think back to the loved ones I have lost over the years; Azalea Martinez, a Christian woman and friend who lost her battle against lymphoma in 1999 but taught me the true meaning of unconditional love. I also will think of Craig Whitlow, who lost his battle against AIDS during the height of its epidemic, but taught me the meaning of dedication & devotion. Mrs. Patricia Wild and Mrs. Betty Dickinson whose strength and loving encouragement allowed me to believe that I could be a great father. And, most recently, Michael Penny who taught me it was ok to be imperfect.

Today I celebrate them with much love and deep appreciation for all they have done to enrich my life and make it what it is: a life of passion.

In their memory I make a promise to myself and hope you will join me in making it, too. That promise is to squeeze ever drop I can from the life I’ve been given; not only to value this life but to fully enjoy the ups, downs, the good and bad, the tailspins and whirlwinds that it can bring.

Stay fit. Stay healthy. And, as always – enjoy your life.

John Aaron Villarreal


Bio: I am a Houston based, male massage therapist and wellness coach specializing in pain management and health programs for individuals over the age of forty. I laugh - a lot. I'm quirky but sincere. And, while I'm not a counselor, I do listen and I do care: Except for the times that I don't. That’s a joke - Did I mention that I like to laugh? Anyway, visit my website, call or email me and let's get together to talk about you, and the many ways to live life better!

The Legal Stuff: I write to inform, inspire and encourage my readers to enjoy all that life has to offer.
The content and information on this site is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease.
Please consult your physician prior to starting any exercise, diet or wellness program.

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