Experts say meditation has many health benefits. It's been linked to cortisol reduction, weight loss, and even increases in IQ. Some describe meditation as a floating sensation, saying it's their favorite way of disconnecting from the stresses of the world for a little while.

When I try to meditate, I feel like I'm falling. Like I'm flailing through the air, screaming inside my own head because I can't handle being alone with my thoughts.

I think I'm doing it wrong.

You told me I was nothing. You were right.

You told me I'd never amount to anything; now that's where you were wrong.

In my opinion, the best kind of revenge is success. I succeeded. My career, no, my life is just beginning. Everywhere I turn, there's a new opportunity just waiting to be seized, an abundance of open doors begging to be traversed.

As for you? You're a high school has-been who hasn't left his couch in years. The inevitable hospital trip that spells the end for you will be the highlight of your sorry existence. I'm sure Hicksville, Alabama will mourn your loss.

I'll send my condolences from London.

I have nothing to lose.

That's not true.

I have nothing to lose right now.

I have the hope of the future.

I have the joy of the past.

I am endowed with strength from the ones who came before me.

I will live to see tomorrow.

And tomorrow,

I might have something to lose.

(EE-NUN-SEE-ATE)

To say or pronounce clearly.

To express, vocalize, or articulate.

The gift of words, of speech itself, is often taken for granted.

Don't.

A burst of power

With carefully chosen words

Short yet meaningful

Shut up for just a second.

Get off of your phones.

Turn off the music.

Pay close attention.

And

Listen.

Listen to the birds that sing in the trees.

Listen to the gurgling, laughing brook,

Listen to the sobbing rain.

Listen to the falling stars

And be grateful for life, wherever you are.

Hope is a dangerous thing. Pandora was right when she tried to keep it in the box. Hope is a master of illusions. She shows us our dreams and goals, achieved and accomplished. Mirages of fame and fortune. Glittering, succulent gems dangling just out of reach.

But it does not do to dwell on dreams. We waste away before dingy brick walls, gazing into the hazy distance. Hope tantalizes us, teasing cruelly. She's a sadist and a monster.

Goodbye, hope. I don't think I'll miss you much.