Life and Death

It seems like Easter is a fitting time to reflect on life, death, and what love truly is. As we reflect on Jesus and all that happened to him when he died and rose again, we realize how quickly people come and go from our lives. Life can literally be taken away in an instant. It could be death or it could be a metaphor for death if someone's mind were to vanish or personality were to completely change. We are still left feeling empty, sad, and though sometimes at peace, our hearts still sting. Just two days ago I attended a funeral for a beautiful woman, someone who lived a long, happy, and complete life. We wished her to the heavens with prayers, flowers, and fond memories. The very next day I was at a baptism, welcoming new life into the church and into God's family. Life and death. Dying and living. It was powerful to me to reflect on the proximity of these two events and how meaningful they both are. Though separate, I found such a connection on these two things occurring back to back. It allowed a lot of reflection from my part, and a lot of prayer. Spring is when we see new life in the form of green grass, flower buds, new birth, and livelihood all around us. After a season of hibernation and gray stillness, we are brought to life again; our black and white winter images turn to vibrant color. Our death and stillness melt away into warm, bright life. I will admit that the two topics, life and death, are on my mind quite frequently. I wouldn't quite say it's fun to think about these things, but they certainly make me appreciate life much more. In stressful times I relish in the love and life of others. I seek out opportunities to remind people how important their life is to my life. I tell loved ones that I love them. I keep in touch. I admire friendships and relationships for what they each are separately, for who each person is individually. I fear the inevitable. Life and death are steady parts of our daily routines. Focusing on life, appreciating life, and sharing love with all people is what keeps me truly happy to be alive.

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