26/03/2025
The Gift of Being Alive
When was the last time you paused to be grateful for simply being alive? Think about it! Life is a precious gift—one we often take for granted. The ability to breathe in fresh air, to feel the steady rhythm of a beating heart, to love and be loved, to think, speak, and move—these are all miracles in themselves. How often do we stop to acknowledge the wonder of just being?
Each of us is a walking miracle. Our minds, our imagination, our physical bodies—all intricately designed—proclaim the beauty of human existence. Yet, life is not without its challenges. The road we travel is filled with unexpected twists and turns. We sometimes skid off course, landing in ditches of pain, loss, and uncertainty. Some wounds are self-inflicted, while others are entirely beyond our control. In such moments of brokenness, where do we turn? How do we gather the scattered pieces of our lives and move forward?
It takes courage to rise after a fall, to keep walking, and perhaps even to run again. The trials of life—whether sickness or emotional distress—can weigh us down. In these difficult times, despair may whisper that life is meaningless. We may even begin to believe we are unworthy in the eyes of others, and even in the eyes of God. But is this really true?
The answer is a resounding no. Every life has meaning and purpose. Each of us is precious, uniquely designed, and deeply valued by our Creator. As the Scriptures remind us: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I dedicated you.” (Jeremiah 1:5). God has a plan for every one of us—a future filled with hope (Jeremiah 29:11).
Periods of inner darkness and depression touch every life. It is part of being human. While some struggles are within our control, others are not. In these times, we must pray for the strength to choose life—to embrace gratitude, even when circumstances seem bleak. To say, “Thank you, Lord, for the gift of life,” no matter our condition, appearance, or situation.
Yet, we know that not everyone finds it easy to hold onto hope. Perhaps you have known someone who felt that life was unbearable and chose to end it. Su***de is a permanent response to what is often a temporary problem. If we or someone we love faces deep despair, what should we do? The first step is always to talk. Honest, open, and have compassionate conversations can make a difference. A listening ear, free of judgment, can be a lifeline. Patience and love—both for ourselves and others—are essential. Sometimes, practical support is also needed, whether emotional, medical, or financial.
We all need each other. Great opportunities to serve God may come rarely, but small ones surround us every day. An act of kindness, however simple, is never wasted. It can bring life and hope to someone in need.
As the Psalmist declares: “Truly, you have formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother’s womb. I give you thanks that I am fearfully, wonderfully made; wonderful are your works.” (Psalm 139).
Let this truth sink in. No matter the trials we face, this is the year of the Lord’s favor—a time to be pilgrims of hope. May we cherish life, uplift one another, and remember that every breath we take is a reason to give thanks. Kalebalika 🙏🏾
