LIFE BEGINS AT FORTY

They say life begins at 40. Tomorrow, October 13, marks the start of a much-anticipated new life so to speak, a chapter I fondly refer to as the climax. It's a bittersweet farewell to the memories of my youth, a time that now feels like a distant echo as I approach this milestone. At 40, I find myself neither young nor old, standing at a crossroads unsure of what lies ahead.

This morning, just a day before I turn forty, I looked at myself in the mirror, A sense of tranquility washed over me. The reflection staring back was a testament to the journey from infancy to adolescence, from carefree bachelorhood to the responsibilities of marriage and fatherhood. Stepping outside, I was greeted by the crisp morning air, which filled my senses with its invigorating aroma. The sight of my one-year-old baby filled me with overwhelming joy, a reminder of life's precious blessings that complete each early day.

However, amidst this peaceful moment, chaos ensued as I glanced at the wall clock and realized the pressing demands of the day: work, shower, breakfast, dressing, keys, car, all orchestrated in a hurried symphony.

En route, near a public school, the strains of a familiar religious melody drifted through the air. Puzzled, I traced its nostalgic familiarity back to my carefree days as a boy singing hymns in church. The song unearthed memories of a simpler, happier times, rejuvenating my spirit and evoking tears of both joy and longing as I found myself singing along while driving. In that moment, I grasped the essence of my life, the sum of precious memories stored deep within my soul, each one a treasure.

This newfound perspective is both unfamiliar and enlightening. I'm discovering a profound appreciation for the overlooked joys and simplicities of life that once escaped my notice. Could this be the essence of life at 40? Perhaps it's true what they say that life truly begins at this age, offering a preview of what lies ahead. It's a time for reflection, for assessing life's journey thus far, and for cherishing the beauty found within it.

    

Turning 40 is not just a milestone; it's a pivotal moment of introspection and gratitude, of embracing life's intricacies, and of finding beauty in its simplest pleasures.

BE THE SALT, LIGHT OF THE EARTH

We are all considered equal in the eyes of God. What then, do we have to boast about, our social status, material wealth, or physical appearance? Each individual, upon closer inspection, is merely a soul with a single lifespan. Why do discrepancies in lifestyles exist? Why do some live in opulence while others struggle? Why do some wield authority over others as if exploiting their disadvantaged positions?

Everyone has their role in life. Imagine the chaos if everyone sought to be rulers and none chose to be servants. In ancient Chinese philosophy, there was a concept known as the Rectification of Names, suggesting that maintaining societal order involves embracing our designated roles, much like the caste system in ancient India.

This idea aligns with the principle that "No Man Is an Island," recognizing our inherently social nature. We do not exist in isolation but in interconnected communities. Life is about reciprocity, there is purpose in everything, a reason for our existence. Just as man complements woman, grazing animals rely on grass for sustenance.

Let us, therefore, discover our purpose in life. Fulfillment is not just a promise for the afterlife but can be experienced in the present. Yet, taken to extremes, the principle of give and take can empower the selfish and harm others at the same time, as depicted by characters like Don Corleone in 'The Godfather.' Under the guise of benevolence, such individuals manipulate for personal gain, making it hard to refuse their offers, even if it means becoming complicit in wrongdoing.

The Bible teaches, "Give, and you shall receive," suggesting a universal law of reciprocity. Let us harness this principle not for selfish gain but for the collective welfare. True happiness lies in inner peace and the absence of enemies. We will be amazed how our compassion for others returns to us manifold.

Let us make a positive impact by embodying the biblical ideals of being the "salt" and "light" of the earth. Ultimately, our purpose is to glorify God, fulfilling the destiny of all creation.