These words were once said to my family and I by someone I consider a Legend… a person who never failed to make sure her everyday was spent as if it were the last. Until it was…

Mariazinha Goncalves   was a legend figure within the Portuguese community always partaking in various charities and events and I bet if more people around the world got a chance to meet her, she would be a world-renowned star. This lady gave life its meaning and did not let the smallest of small issues disturb her, living the best life that was open to her.   People might have thought she was crazy for some of the daring things she did, but I totally think she had all the best intention at heart and just living in the moment.  This star set out a life with no regrets and took any opportunity to have a great time. That’s not to say that she didn’t have a bad day or two, but all in all, I think the life she led should and probably was envied by many.  Every time we bumped into Mariazinha at a festival she always had a smile on her face and being the life of the party.  Just living in the moment.

This is the exact image that I want to base my Life on. A life full of happy memories and no regrets. A life where people think that what you are doing is insane, yet it ends up being one of the greatest things done. Live, where you can look back and smile because there is no reason for tears. A life, worthy of a legend, worthy of being looked on and spoken about around dinner tables.  Setting an example of the right way to live.  

We get so consumed by the problems that are tossed into our way that we forget to make the best of what is happening.  We don’t need to focus on the issue entirely, but what’s more, we can turn it around into something rather to be grateful for.

Instead of moaning about school or an early shift at work, we should be thankful that we even got the opportunity to go.  Instead of complaining about cleaning your room or washing the dishes, be grateful that you have that room and you get those dishes on the table. We focus on the negative point of our problem at hand and completely ignore the better side to what’s in front of us.

Not so long ago I realized what kind of a life I want to lead. I suppose I have known for a while but after seeing the story on the passing of Maria, it set in. I don’t want a life that is based on being the new success story. I definitely don’t want a life ruled by money or greed. I want a life where there is actual happiness and not care about what people think you should be doing. This was a leader that people looked up to for being the lively person she was, with her vibrant nature to make a good time out of any situation. This is a life worth of a legend, a legend like Maria.

We usually say that you cannot become a legend before death.  But Mariazinha was a true living legend.