Thank-you August 26, 2008
Posted by Stewart in All posts.Tags: family, friends, gratitude, people, thank-you
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Why am I happy? Is it because of material comforts? Today, I’ve realized, no. No, it’s not because of any material possession, but rather, something deeper. Something more profound and meaningful that makes me happy. People. It is the people in my life that brighten each day. It is the people in my life who offer me their smiles, guidance, company and support, that make me happy. And to them I owe a great debt of gratitude that I feel incapable of ever fully repaying.
These people are my friends and my family; they are my fellow pilgrims, who have on more than one occasion picked me up when I was down and carried me throughout the journey. They the people with whom I have laughed on what would otherwise be a boring trip. They have put up with me in even my most irritable moments, and have engendered in me a powerful sense of belonging and identity. They have nourished my character and intellect by their insights and experiences, and have each shaped my personality. They have made sacrifices for me, all with the pure intent of love.
How can I fully emphasize how grateful I am for such pure intentions, such care, friendship and compassion? I feel so blessed in my life. I am rich, not because of any material wealth nor any status, but more importantly because of the people that enrich my life. Such riches are not measured by material standards, but are priceless, and are what makes a person truly happy.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will abide.” (Matthew 6:21) I pray then, treasure people. Treasure your fellow human beings – fellow pilgrims on the journey of life with its many mysterious paths and its many doors and gates.
June 20, 2008
Posted by Stewart in Uncategorized.Tags: baka, compassion, family
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Simple acts of compassion can often go unnoticed. But one must not forget, it is not the magnitude of the action that matters, but rather the amount of love. One such simple act of compassion that I experienced earlier was from my grandmother. While staying up late into the night completing dreary homework and coughing loudly in irregular spasms, my grandmother who is ill herself, left the warmth of her bed to make for a cup of tea to soothe a dry and inflamed throat. This simple act meant something to me, and I did notice it. She went out of her way to do something for me, not for her own sake, but out of genuine love for her grandson. Thanks nan, you always have and still continue to give of yourself. You inspire me, and I pray to have a heart as generous and devoted to family as yours.
