Tomorrow is not promised. Yesterday has passed. Are you living to the fullest today?

There are not many celebrities that I have met and remember our conversation. I was never a star-struck fan of anyone, but then again, I was never face-to-face with Prince to test it. But I have been in the presence of Ms Warwick, Dr. Caesar, Sir Luther Vandross, and others without losing my mind or composure.

I mention celebrities for a reason. I recall a conversation early on Saturday morning outside the High School of Fashion Industries. A young Malcolm Jamal Warner was there. He waited in line to take his SAT with other juniors and seniors. When asked why he was there, he said Mr. Cosby mandated that they keep up with their education, hone their craft, and keep a clean record. Over the years, Mr. Warner did just that. He led a successful career as an actor, poet, director, and writer.

Next month, Malcomb Jamal Warren would have turned 55 years old. Some would have said I died too young, but who are we to say he died too soon?

We each have a dash in life. The moments we take our first breath and the moment we take our last breath. We control neither of those times. Nevertheless, what we can control is how we live between them both.

Live today as if it is your last. Love those in your life today, so there is no question tomorrow if you ever loved them. Honor the vision and dreams within you so that others will be blessed after you are gone. Know whoze you are, confess, repent, and accept to hear “well done” in the end.

Rest in peace, Malcolm Jamal Warner—my deepest condolences to your wife, daughter, parents, and family.