In our early 20’s the world is promising and full of possibilities. There are windows open and knocking doors waiting to be opened. A certain immortality state of mind over powers our ability to make wise decisions; paying rent on time, throwing the milk out by its expiration date, or not eating a whole cake in one sitting. We live life carefree and effortless.
At a certain point we start to realize that rent keeps a roof over our head, sour milk leads to all day trips to the bathroom and diabetes is not just an after school special made just for old people with canes. Once we realize this, it’s as if our youth is gone and replaced with mini vans and little league games. We live our today’s as if tomorrow never comes or You Only Live Once aka: “YOLO” lifestyle.
Then there are those who are young with old souls.
One of my photo shoot sessions was for Anny Carolina Castillo; a resilient young lady living each day to its fullest. Anny’s motto is “It’s all in the mind to be strong”. She has a twin sister named Jaqueline who has a 3yr old named Xander, that she loves to pieces as her best little buddy. Her old soul did not cover up her softer side. She’s tough while wearing her heart on her sleeve. Anny has been through a good 2-3 lifetimes as it is. Her natural leadership skills helped get her through those times. You wouldn’t think she has endured so much at such a young age just by looking at her. What you do see when looking at Anny is a big smile full of joy and a fun girl to hang out with; a great friend.
Here’s to my generation of old guys and their young souls. If there was anything I truly got out of this journey with Anny, is to live life most days like it’s your last days and for all the other days I’ll be checking expiration dates, paying bills, and not leave a fork in the cake box to be eaten all at once. Always remember to....
Be YOLO, Be Gorgeous, Be YOU!
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