Dear Mitch Albom,

I know that every day is a gift but, like everyone, I didn't treat each moment like it was my last. I knew that I should have, but I had my mind set on materialistic things instead of spiritual things. You know, the latest fashion, the newest hairstyle, or the best gadget. Tuesdays with Morrie made me open my eyes. I realized how blind I was before and how one small idea can change a life.

Tuesdays with Morrie made me think about what it can be like for someone like Morrie with a fatal disease. I have a grandfather who is paralyzed from the neck to the spine. He can move his arms and legs but is almost completely bedridden. He has been like that for as long as I can remember so I just accepted it. While reading your book, I began to understand what it might be like to be imprisoned in your own body and for a few days it was all I could think about.

As the story went on, I grew to love Morrie and his simple pleasures made my heart lift. Mitch's character melted away and let me think about life and how selfish I had been. Morrie created each idea so deep; I could feel the wheels turning in my head as I thought about it. Morrie's favorite saying, "When you learn to die, you learn to live," made me realize that I was walking through life with a sheet over my head. After I finished your book, I felt the sheet slip off my eyes, allowing me to see the world the way Morrie had seen it.

I never knew how hung up I was on stuff, but after Tuesdays with Morrie, I learned that life is a gift, and you should live it to its fullest. After all, you only get one chance. Your words caused me to slow down and notice things, like the color of the flowers, the shape of the clouds, things that make life worthwhile. I felt happier and livelier, all because of your book. Thank you for that.

Sincerely,
Emily Gerrior

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