You’ve probably heard the saying, “There are two things promised in life: death and taxes.” Taxes might not mean much to you yet, but the idea behind this saying is that some things in life are certain—like the fact that everyone is born, and everyone will eventually die. It might sound heavy, but understanding this can actually help you live a more meaningful life.

Think of birth and death as two doors—one you walk through when you enter the world, and one you’ll walk through when you leave. What happens in between is your story. Every choice you make, every friendship, every challenge, and every success is a part of that story. Birth is about new beginnings—starting high school, making new friends, and discovering your passions. Death, on the other hand, isn’t just about the end of life; it’s about endings in general—finishing a school year, letting go of old habits, or moving on from something that’s holding you back.

Here’s the thing: life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes you’ll feel on top of the world, and other times you’ll feel lost or afraid. That’s normal. What matters is how you respond. If you carry a positive attitude and believe in yourself, you’ll find that even when one door closes, another one opens. Every ending is a chance for a new beginning. The choices you make—whether to be kind, to work hard, or to stand up for what’s right—shape who you become.

It’s easy to get caught up in fear or negativity, especially when things don’t go your way. But remember, everyone faces challenges. What sets people apart is how they deal with them. Will you let fear stop you, or will you use it as motivation to grow? Will you focus on what you’ve lost, or on what you can create next?

In the end, the most important judgment comes from within. If you live true to yourself, treat others with respect, and learn from your mistakes, you’ll have nothing to fear. Life is about learning, growing, and making the most of the time you have. So, what kind of story do you want to write for yourself?