I found last week’s helicopter and plane crash upsetting and disturbing, followed by a second crash and more lives cut short. The reality of the instantaneous loss of that many lives clung to me all week like a cold, wet blanket, heavy and oppressive. Perhaps, the fact that the emotions felt so familiar factored in.
Sudden death is hard. I know how these families feel—shock and grief mingled together with the sadness of not having a chance to say goodbye. No last hug and kiss, no parting words, and what-ifs swirling.
Life is short, a temporary stay.
Following are reflections on making the most of life’s brief sojourn:
Avoid Holding Grudges
The root of holding a grudge is unforgiveness. For some reason, we often feel not forgiving punishes the person who hurt us. Nothing could be further from the truth. Failing to forgive hurts you much more than it does others. Unforgiveness clouds your thoughts with reruns of hurts and impedes forward motion. Resentment robs you of joy and wastes energy. Unclutter your life by letting go of hurt, resentment, and hostility toward others.
Speak Kindness
We live in a world of complainers and blamers. Negativism becomes a way of life for many, but you can make the choice to see positives and speak kindness to those around you. Let criticism slide, replacing it with compliments and graciousness. Be the one who encourages and affirms. Your kind words may be the only affirmation someone receives today.
Be Cognizant of the Temporary Nature of Life
No one likes to think about mortality, but it is as real as life itself.
When Jim and I woke on January 3, 2024, we had no idea we only had half a day before Jim’s exit from this life. Last week, those in the plane and helicopter had almost made it to the end of the day. That plane was nearing the finish line, almost on the ground. They were almost home when the unthinkable happened and lives ended.
Sometimes, we are lulled into believing this present life goes on indefinitely, but our lives on earth are temporary. That knowledge doesn’t mean we should live in a constant state of fear, dreading and expecting death around every corner. Instead, the temporary nature of life should spur us to make the most of every day.
Love Your People Well
Our busy lives often prevent us from spending time with those we love. The idea of “soon” stretches on for weeks and months and we fail to take steps to gather, talk, and enjoy each other. Instead, make the effort to love your people well. Regrets are few for those who seize today and connect.
Make Spiritual Growth a Priority
Many do not acknowledge the need for the development of our spiritual being. They place value on their own abilities and wisdom. But spiritual growth adds a deeper dimension to life. The insights we gain through a relationship with God enhance life and prepare us for what lies ahead.
While our sojourn in this life is temporary, we have the hope of eternal life, after death, through faith.
Don’t waste your life shackled to unforgiveness, fear, and uncertainty. While it is still today, forgive, act with kindness, love, and make decisions that enrich your life and the lives of those around you.
“My friends, watch out! Don’t let evil thoughts or doubts make any of you turn from the living God. You must encourage one another each day. And you must keep on while there is still a time that can be called “today.” If you don’t, then sin may fool some of you and make you stubborn. We were sure about Christ when we first became his people. So let’s hold tightly to our faith until the end” (Hebrews 3:12-14 CEV).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).