While no parent ever wants to consider their child's mortality, a moving post written by a much-loved Hollywood icon urges us to do so if only to recognise how truly blessed we are.
Taking to Facebook on the sixth anniversary of his son's death, John Travolta paid tribute to his 16-year-old son Jett and opened up about the impact his child's passing had on his perspective on life.
Beginning the post which quickly went viral, John, who married Kelly Preston in 1991, wrote: "They say the hardest thing in the world is losing a parent. I can now say that isn't true.The hardest thing in the world is losing a child."
In words which will resonate with parents all over the world, John continued: "Someone you raised and watched grow everyday. Someone you taught how to walk and talk. Someone you showed how to love."
Jett, who had autism and died after suffering a seizure in 2009, had a profound impact on his father's life, with John writing: "He brought me so much joy. He was my everything. Those 16 years of being his father taught me how to love unconditionally."
The Grease star went on to urge his fans and followers to embrace their families while they can, writing: "We have to stop and be thankful for our children and children should stop and be thankful for their parents. Because, life is very short."
"Spend time wih your parents and parents spend time with your children. Because, one day, when you look up from your phone, they won't be there anymore," he wrote in the message which has been circulated widely online.
Reflecting on the lessons life has taught him in the last six years, John, who is also father to 13-year-old Ella and three-year-old Benjamin, revealed: "What I truly learned most of all is, live and love everyday like it's your last. Because one day it will be."
Reminding the public to embrace the life we have, John finished with a touching piece of advice: "Tell the ones you love, that you love them everyday. Don't take any moment for granted. Life is worth living."
What a truly touching tribute.
