Monday, November 14, 2005
Obituary
Imagine having the chance to be someone else and writing an obituary about yourself?This was done at a group meeting a couple of weeks ago, which everyone thought was a bit morbid. But all of us read and shared what we wrote - and I got a glimpse into other people's hearts, as well as my own. Here was what I wrote.
- I feel privileged to say something about this friend, and fellow traveler. As I got to know him more and more, I felt that he took time to build bridges and connect with me. In times when I needed support, I always felt that I could depend on him, always sensed that I could let my guard down without feeling judged. I observed that he had a soft spot to look after people whom he felt was 'lost' or vulnerable, mainly I think because he understood what it meant to be in that state.
- He challenged me to live my life looking outwards and making a difference in other people's life, not merely living for myself. And that meant sometimes taking risks with people and sharing his own weaknesses. He understood deeply God's word expressed in the prayer: "Teach me, Lord to number my days, that I may gain a heart of wisdom". As such, although at times he struggled with procrastination, difficulties, doubt and failure, he brought it to the Lord to use it for His good. He struggled, but he always tried to obey the Lord, especially when there were risks to step beyond what he felt he was comfortable with, and to let God enlarge his boundaries.
All in all, more than his words, it was the way he lived his life and time spent with him which made a difference to help me grow as a person and in God.
My 'picture' is far from complete - wrong strokes, missed lines and conflicting colours everywhere. That sometimes discourages me. But I cling on to the hope that if the sketch is right, it will provide a starting point for painting in the colours and details, and eventually the picture will be a coherent one guided by the Master. A fact worth remembering, I believe.
Labels: Significance / Life Purpose, Spiritual Direction / Guidance
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