Embracing the Present: Lessons of Love, Loss, and Living Fully in 2025

People think they know me, but today I felt the need to unmask myself, to share a part of my soul that often stays hidden.

Life is fleeting, fragile, and unpredictable. We often hear the phrase “you only live once” so frequently that it starts to feel like a cliché. But it’s not. It’s a truth I’ve come to understand in the most painful ways.

Two years ago, I lost my best friend. One moment, we were chatting as always, and the next, she was gone. Just like that. No warning, no preparation—not that there’s ever a way to truly prepare for losing someone so dear. She was so young—not even 35—and yet, she was taken far too soon.

She had just given birth to a little angel, her legacy, who will carry her light forward. Even now, I struggle to comprehend it. How is it possible? Why, God? Then I remind myself that grief and death, as painful as they are, are natural parts of our lives. Like the seasons, they come and go, teaching us lessons about the cycles of life.

The following year, I lost my mentor. He wasn’t just a guide but a father figure who believed in me, challenged me, and inspired me to improve. Losing him felt like losing a part of my foundation, and the void it left is something I carry with me every day.

I will never be the same. But I take strength from what these two incredible people saw in me. I miss them like hell, but their belief in me keeps me moving forward.

My message to you today is this: Live your life intentionally and consciously. Don’t wait for the “right moment.” Don’t wait until you retire or until you feel “ready.” Embrace every day with purpose and presence. Appreciate the small, beautiful moments in life—the laughter, the love, the quiet joys that make life worth living.

And remember this: There is no limit or age to pursue your dreams. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to do, start now. You’re never too old, too late, or too far gone to create a new chapter. Life doesn’t come with a timeline for dreams—it’s up to you to write yours.

This picture is a cherished memory with my mentor, Takis, my father figure, on the left. We were in Athens interviewing Mr. Stassinopoulos, an inspiring scientist from NASA who passed away a few years ago at the incredible age of 103. Takis, you will always be my mentor. I miss our deep discussions, your guidance, and watching Spurs matches together.

And Cris—my lovely, crazy Spanish friend. I miss you terribly. You were such a fun, happy soul, and the world is dimmer without you in it.

As we step into 2025, my hope for all of us is to live fully and authentically. Let this new year be one of boldness, confidence, and connection. Choose to live with intention, appreciating the present moment, because that is where life truly happens.

Grief and death remind us of life’s preciousness, urging us to embrace it fully. I will write more about this profound truth in another article, but for now, let us honour life by truly living it.

May 2025 bring you the strength to face storms, gratitude for the sunshine, and the courage to chase your dreams unapologetically. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher, and never dim your light for anyone.

Wishing you a happy New Year filled with love, purpose, and joy.

With love and gratitude,

Nadia

www.zenyogalifecoach.com