Life is short. In some cases, really short and we never know exactly what we’ll have time to do with what we’ve got. That is why I compiled a list of things that I believe we should all do before we die. Some of these things are so easy that you won’t even have to leave your living room to do them. Some, you’ll have to leave America to do. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself first and foremost, even if what you enjoy isn’t here.

1. Build something you will actually use

   This is all about a feeling of achievement. Even if all you make is a change jar, at least you’ll use it.

2. Write a story

   Well, I say story, but if you prefer poetry or painting, go with it. It’s never a bad idea to flex your imaginative muscles. Plus, it always feels really good to finish a creative work.

3. Watch Life as a House

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   There really is no sense of fulfillment here, it’s just an excellent movie that I believe everyone should watch. Plus, it deals with doing something important before dying. An appropriate movie for this list.

4. Pull off a Heist

   I know that almost nobody will accomplish this one. Really only Danny Ocean and his crew have done it and they aren’t even real, but wouldn’t it be invigorating to get away with it?

5. Play a Huge Prank on One of Your Friends

   It doesn’t matter what you do as long as you get a good laugh out of it. Personally, I stole my friend’s car and filled it with packing peanuts but you don’t have to go to such a criminal extent. Be prepared for retribution though.

6. See a Wonder of the World

   Pyramids, leaning towers, sphinxes it doesn’t matter. It just feels good to see something that has lasted so long and will undoubtedly continue to last.

7. Deface a Wonder of the World

   Another criminal activity, but let’s face it: what would feel better than knowing that you contributed to the eventual destruction of a landmark that has been around for thousands of years? And in any case, it would be nice to own a piece of one of these places.

8. Run for Public Office

   It would be fun to run for mayor. It would be even more fun to be mayor. Or governor or Senator or President. Plus, if you win, you’ll get to make the changes you always said somebody should make.

9. Learn a Second Language

   Expand your mind. “Nuff said.

10. Take a Walk at Night in the Rain

    I always think better when I walk, and walking in the rain puts you at ease. As long as it isn”t cold outside. Best reserved for the Springtime.

11. Perform on Stage

    You don’t have to be on Broadway to be on stage. Community theater is just as good as any theater. Besides, this is about making memories and you’ll remember what you did even if you don’t get your own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

12. Throw a Penny off of the Roof of the Empire State Building

    I know they don’t kill anybody, but the view is tremendous.

13. Tell the People Important to You that They Are Important to You

    Really sappy, I know. But everybody likes to know that they are important. Besides, one day you won’t be able to let them know.

14. Tell the People You Hate that You Hate Them

    Almost exactly like the predecessor, but to the other extent. One day you won’t be able to tell the guy that lives next door to you that you always hated him and his stupid haircut. Use with care though. You don’t want to tell your boss that you hate his guts if you’re not going to die for a while.

There, this is only a sampling of things that I feel like everybody should experience at least one time before they die. I would have suggested more things, but these are only suggestions and the more things you think of yourself, the more fulfilled you’ll feel.