What That Really Matters ……

“When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand.” – Henri Nouwen.

It is easy for any of us to forget our life’s aims in the coming months of 2013. Say; “What are the most important things in life?” “Who are the most important people in our lives?” Or “What are the most important tasks in our lives?”

To serve from our hearts is to give ourselves to life – not our words, time or business, but ourselves. We do not need any resources to serve from our hearts – all we need is to be rich inside. 

Having a good heart is one thing but to give it, to create something, is even a more powerful donation. When the heart is used, there is a radiation outwards which touches others’ hearts. And when we let something go, we are making space in our lives for new ideas and experiences.

Thus, meeting someone else’s need even in a small way, is an incredibly gratifying experience and a major key to true happiness. 

You see, the measure of life is not its duration but its donation. Those who give to others set into motion a cycle of blessings that often includes the feelings of joy, happiness, satisfaction, fulfillment and a deep, abiding sense of purpose. It is a genuine expression of love and love’s finest hour.

Perhaps, the present speed of life, the many distractions along our way and the fragmented nature of modern life, has both directly and indirectly contributed to the dissolution of noble aims and life’s most important aspects. Thus, we have to be mindful the point and goal of the race. And keep the focus on that which really matters.

My parting thought; “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.” – Charles Dickens. 

There are so many things we can offer to all those around us this New Year. And many of these things are free. Say some of our time, some of our knowledge, some of our support or love – they cost us nothing but something others value a lot. The fact is, if we limit the love we give to just one or two, it will eventually halt. But, if we learn to create love inside our hearts and silently give it to everyone we meet, believe me, love will grace every corner of our lives.

Have a beautiful weekend !!!

Michael.