Living a Deliberate LifeIn the twenty-first century, society lives a life in which individuals are often too busy to reflect on life and its true meaning. People are often overwhelmed by unimportant things. What is living deliberately? If Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862), transcendentalist essayist, were alive today, and asked me if I live as he suggests, I would have to answer no. I think it's almost impossible with all these new technological advances in today's modern world. Thoreau tells us, “The nation itself with all its so-called internal improvements, which by the way are all external and superficial…” To live deliberately is to simplify and enhance the important things in life. People need to dedicate time to important causes like community. service and volunteering. I have volunteered at a food pantry on a few occasions, and it has been a very humbling and valuable experience for me, and one I will never forget. It was heartbreaking to see all the people in need missing the most essential things in life, like food. There were people queuing for about two hours before we even opened the door, just to get a number. I could hear people talking in line as I packed canned goods and perishables. When the other volunteers opened the door and started calling the numbers, we proceeded to hand them the bag of food, they had a forever grateful look in their eyes. It was as if the gratitude in their eyes pierced and warmed my heart at the same time. It was a bittersweet moment and listening to it over and over again was overwhelming. And on the other hand, there are other people in America, who the stress of their day is trying to choose the latest model IPHONE, or cars...... middle of paper......just let me take it take care of her. Being there for them makes me feel lucky. Therefore, people should not take the little things for granted, because we don't know what the future holds. Getting out more and enjoying nature should be a priority in life. Listen to the birds singing early in the morning, smell the orange blossoms in spring or take a walk on the beach. Also, take a moment to look up at the sky, take a deep breath, and take in all the beauty that nature has to offer. Enjoy precious time with loved ones, like watching your child play the sport they love most and seeing them smile while having fun. Don't let any distractions interfere, such as cell phones, the Internet or social media. “Living deliberately” has a different meaning for everyone. Whatever that meaning is, embrace it and live a life of purpose.