Common is one of my favorite hip hop artists as he deftly weaves dope beats and fresh rhymes to create socially conscious music. He uses his artistry to sing of love for his community but also to speak out against social injustice. He released his sixth studio album, Be, in 2005. To quote lyrics from the title track, Be, “Never looking back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift, and I just want to be.”

Too often we get so caught up trying to right the wrongs of our past or so fearful of our next steps that we fail to exist in the moment – to dwell in the present. So, I challenge you to celebrate today. We cannot change our past nor can we predict our future. While we should not forego careful planning and preparation, we must choose to live in the here and now and embrace what each day brings.

Live in the moment and just be!