Enjoy Your Life

Can I ask you a question? If you will, how do you find meaning in your life? Think of a few things that come to mind when I ask you that question. These are the things that bring you a sense of joy and warmth to your heart. Maybe it's a delicious meal with your family, volunteering, playing music or something as simple as a walk in nature with a friend. For all of us, it is different.

Specifically, while on a hike a couple years ago, I have a memory of my wife and I, our son, and dogs sitting beside a creek while on a hike. It was early spring, the snow was still covering the ground in spots, but that day it felt warm. I remember feeling the warmth of the sun on my face and seeing the reflection of the sunlight on everyone's hair and the sound of the water as it passed by. I thought to myself at that moment "life will change" as it always does and so I treasured that moment, often returning to that place in my mind on a regular basis. It was a moment of sweet and quiet joy for me with those who I love most. How about you? Are you enjoying your life right now?

Life is supposed to be absolutely full of moments like these, but unfortunately, as so often happens, we build prisons for ourselves. What holds you prisoner? Working too many hours? Debt that causes you to have to work more and play less? Addiction? Fear? Toxic relationships? I could go on and on.

If you are in a place where it can be difficult to experience joy right now, think about all that is currently holding you back. Don't worry, you don't need to make change right now. Enjoy a moment of quiet reflection and experience the understanding you receive.

I want to leave you with one thing to remember. It is not what you accomplish in your life that truly defines you. Besides having a healthy spiritual life and obeying God's command, don't forget to enjoy yourself in the short life you have. That is what truly matters. What is money if you have no time to enjoy what you have earned? What is time worth if you are suffering? What is accumulating material objects, if you become poor trying to maintain them, thus growing unhappy?

I once asked God what his purpose was for me. He returned with a question. "What would you like to do?" He asked. I ask you that same question now. What would you like to do? Whatever it is, go enjoy yourself. You deserve it.

"Even so, I have noticed one thing, at least, that is good. It is good for people to eat, drink, and enjoy their work under the sun during the short life God has given them, and to accept their lot in life." - King David (Ecclesiastes 5:18)

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