*You start dying slowly*

*You start dying slowly* *if* you do not travel, *if* you do not read, *If* you do not listen to the sounds of life, *If* you do not appreciate yourself. *You start dying slowly :* When you kill your self-esteem, When you do not let others help you. *You start dying slowly ;* If you become a slave of your habits, Walking everyday on the same paths… If you do not change your routine, If you do not wear different colours Or you do not speak to those you don’t know. *You start dying slowly :* If you avoid to feel passion And their turbulent emotions; Those which make your eyes glisten And your heart beat fast. *You start dying slowly :* If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain If you do not go after a dream If you do not allow yourself At least once in your lifetime To run away from sensible advice *Don't let yourself die slowly* *Do not forget to be happy!* ~ Pablo Neruda Chilean poet who was awarded the Nobe Prize for Literature in 1971