I often read obituaries in newspapers. People who are featured are usually seemingly “ordinary” folks. They are grandmothers and grandfathers, husbands and wives, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, sometimes, there are the younger ones who are also sons and daughters, leaving behind grieving parents.
Above all, they are friends, members of the community, with hobbies and interests, talents and weaknesses, failures and triumphs, heartaches and exultations.
Of course, in an obituary, the failures and heartaches don’t find a mention though these are part of everyone’s life.
When we think of our own inevitable demise, how do we want to be remembered by the ones we leave behind? Hopefully, they will be reminded of our acts of kindness, how we held them while they wept their hearts out, how we cooked a meal for them that nourished both their bodies and souls, our dedication to our work, our acts of giving that made a difference to someone somewhere, our soothing words that uplifted them in their darkest moments, and above all, our presence that mattered.
So, this day, let us take our gifts and share them with the world. Whether it is a smile, or an ability to draw or sing, go ahead, show it. Do you crave recognition for your talents? Go forth and shine your light. You never know whom you will inspire, touch or even heal.
And give generously. Whether it is your time, money, effort or energy, just giving to someone or a cause you care about without expecting anything in return, makes a huge difference in this world, even if we don’t notice.
Above all, cherish this life, this journey, and this moment… just the way every meditation and spiritual leader would tell us.
Guest Post and Original Photo – Lakshmi Iyer
0 Comments