"Bubbling up in our own good time-- online."
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Volume 6 Issue 2
Page 6
Page 6
As I sit and reflect on what I shall write, I am reminded that my last article was on
“Life’s Journey.” It seems I am still very much in a similar mindset... fueled by events
of 2009 that touched my life. The year began for me by conducting a Celebration of
Life service for a dear friend, Helen Steele, who, at 100 years of age, died on
Christmas Day 2008. Then, 2009 drew to a close with the unexpected passing of my
3-year old great-grandson, Peter Hefley. What I remember most is not the sadness
of their passing, but the great impact of their lives on others… they both left huge
footprints in the sands of time.
My friend Helen was an ever hopeful, compassionate, caring person who loved any
excuse to get together and celebrate with others. She was a devoted friend and
supporter of many good causes. Helen touched people’s lives in lasting ways. She
was what comes to mind when I attempt to define a “good person.”
Little Peter had a much shorter time to work his “magic” here, but work it, he did!
This little guy, when he could finally walk, had to do so with a walker and, unlike
outspoken Helen, Peter was just beginning to learn how to talk. However, he was
able to communicate effectively. He learned to sign and his easy smile, sparkling
eyes and his radiant spirit spoke volumes. His example and his message to all who
came in contact with him was simply, unfettered Joy. He was what comes to mind
when I contemplate the meaning of life.
So different they were, yet Peter and Helen effectively touched lives both near and
far. They remind me that life is not rightfully gauged by time spent here on planet
Earth. Neither is it about the things we do, it is about what we are being – the ways in
which we reach out and touch the lives of others. Awards, certifications, titles and
position – such things have no lasting value.
As I step gingerly into 2010, I wonder anew, “What’s my purpose in life?” My to-do
list is about as long as it ever was, but somehow I feel that the important things of this
year will be about what I am being and not about the stuff I do. It is so easy to get
caught up in all the doings of life, investing time and resources in things that really
have no lasting value. What counts, I think, is my attitude, my outlook on life and how I
choose to relate to, and interact with, other people. I am grateful for the example of
Helen and Peter and so many others whose lives have paved the way and have
given me a golden yardstick upon which I can measure my sense of being. I hope I
can somehow measure up…
My sense is that 2010 provides great opportunities for each of us to look beyond the
seeming demands of daily life and find ways to leave lasting footprints that somehow
serve to inspire others to be perhaps more than they have been.
May your 2010 be filled with many moments of abundant hope and unfettered joy!
“Life’s Journey.” It seems I am still very much in a similar mindset... fueled by events
of 2009 that touched my life. The year began for me by conducting a Celebration of
Life service for a dear friend, Helen Steele, who, at 100 years of age, died on
Christmas Day 2008. Then, 2009 drew to a close with the unexpected passing of my
3-year old great-grandson, Peter Hefley. What I remember most is not the sadness
of their passing, but the great impact of their lives on others… they both left huge
footprints in the sands of time.
My friend Helen was an ever hopeful, compassionate, caring person who loved any
excuse to get together and celebrate with others. She was a devoted friend and
supporter of many good causes. Helen touched people’s lives in lasting ways. She
was what comes to mind when I attempt to define a “good person.”
Little Peter had a much shorter time to work his “magic” here, but work it, he did!
This little guy, when he could finally walk, had to do so with a walker and, unlike
outspoken Helen, Peter was just beginning to learn how to talk. However, he was
able to communicate effectively. He learned to sign and his easy smile, sparkling
eyes and his radiant spirit spoke volumes. His example and his message to all who
came in contact with him was simply, unfettered Joy. He was what comes to mind
when I contemplate the meaning of life.
So different they were, yet Peter and Helen effectively touched lives both near and
far. They remind me that life is not rightfully gauged by time spent here on planet
Earth. Neither is it about the things we do, it is about what we are being – the ways in
which we reach out and touch the lives of others. Awards, certifications, titles and
position – such things have no lasting value.
As I step gingerly into 2010, I wonder anew, “What’s my purpose in life?” My to-do
list is about as long as it ever was, but somehow I feel that the important things of this
year will be about what I am being and not about the stuff I do. It is so easy to get
caught up in all the doings of life, investing time and resources in things that really
have no lasting value. What counts, I think, is my attitude, my outlook on life and how I
choose to relate to, and interact with, other people. I am grateful for the example of
Helen and Peter and so many others whose lives have paved the way and have
given me a golden yardstick upon which I can measure my sense of being. I hope I
can somehow measure up…
My sense is that 2010 provides great opportunities for each of us to look beyond the
seeming demands of daily life and find ways to leave lasting footprints that somehow
serve to inspire others to be perhaps more than they have been.
May your 2010 be filled with many moments of abundant hope and unfettered joy!
| The Philosopher's Corner: Life's Journey By Jimminy Cricket |