Ethan writing you from Barcelona where there were recently some terrorist attacks from the 16th - 18th of August, 2017. Fortunately, I was not personally affected, but these tragic events definitely got me thinking, and that's what we discuss in this episode of the RealLife English Podcast. 

The headlines all say some variation of "14 Dead in the Attacks in Barcelona." And although this is effective and impactful to see at the front of the newspaper, it is way too impersonal. 

Don't think of 14 dead. Think of the 14 individuals, each with a name, a face, a family--and perhaps more importantly--dreams that now they will never have the possibility to accomplish. Their potential was stolen from them, but you and I are still here. And you and I need to remember that our time, our potential, our dreams can be taken at any moment. We have to act NOW. By telling ourselves that we will have time tomorrow, or next week, or next year to achieve our dreams we avoid the reality that the victim yesterday could have been you or me. And it is a disrespect to those that did have their dreams stolen from them yesterday if you and I don't at least try to make ours a reality today. 

I truly send my heart out to any of you affected by the events here in Barcelona, or anywhere else. Here we might say, "Tots units fem força," -- united we are stronger! And it's never more than in times of tragedy that we see how real this is. Together we will not give up in the face of a few cruel individuals. Together we can make our dreams a reality. Together we can make a better tomorrow.

Let's continue the good fight together, you and I! Much love from Barcelona️ ❤️!