Life Worth Living
written by: Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. ”
In this Covid time, we need to be reminded that life continues to be worth living. I was reminded of this truth when I read Karen Nimmo’s article, “5 Gentle Wisdoms That Make Life Worth Living.” Nimmo provides a harsh call to face life, no matter what it brings in any given moment. She calls us to admit with courage that “Life won’t do what you tell it to.” In response to life’s uncertainty, Nimmo calls us to live with passion.
Nimmo begins, “1. Be bothered. Even a little bit.” Nimmo quotes Joan Baez, “Action is the antidote to despair.” Remaining active in the challenges and injustices of this world retains our passion for life. The second wisdom Nimmo asserts is, “2. Make things. In your own way.” There is never the right time for life’s changes. We make our moments of transformation, and often waiting for the right time leaves us waiting more than doing.
“3. Borrow someone else’s glasses.” Borrowing glasses is a creative way of challenging each of us to expand our worldview by demonstrating empathy for others. “4. Banter. Anywhere.” Nimmo illuminates this point by quoting Lord Tennyson, “I am a part of all that I have met.” While Nimmo didn’t say this in her article, I want to emphasize the need to appreciate others is a gift to God. Since each of us is created in the image of God, we should “banter” as a sign of God’s respect for all God’s children.
Finally, “5. Every day’s a party. Sort of.” Today and every day, pray for God to give you the gift of the first four pieces of wisdom. While you’re working to fulfill the four, do not ever forget to celebrate this life God has given you. Most of us are good at concern for others and empathy, but what few of us have learned to do well is celebrate. Today and the rest of this week, when you’ve made even the slightest progress, stop and appreciate, even celebrate the moment. Make a quick prayer as part of your celebration because God set the stage through hardship as well as prosperity. As God cries with you in your difficulty, invite God to the party when you experience moments of joy.
