As I turn 45, I have come to realize that more than half of my life is over. It probably has been for quite a few years, lol. When a person looks back on their life to the current day and time, there will be things that they are NOT proud of.....sins committed, people you love who you have done wrong, failing to do or say something to help another person in need. But, that being said, there are things we should be thankful for. Things we SHOULD be proud of. But what is pride in your own accomplishments? Are we not just a bit selfish for doing things just to justify our own fulfillment? Our focus should be on doing things to help others who are in need...suffering from poverty, hunger, sickness, abuse, addiction, oppression......is it not Gods will for us to do so? Although I have spent many years as a first responder, I now feel that most of what I have done has been to satisfy myself and not my fundamental Christian existence. Back in August 2004, I made a decision that ultimately saved my life but nearly took it in the process. I still feel guilt over what my wife and family went through in those dark days I spent in the ICU at Allegheny General. But, with the power of prayer from so many wonderful family and friends and by the mercy of Almighty God, I made it through. When I came home, I made the decision right then and there that I would put service to others (and I mean TRUE service to OTHERS) above myself. That means helping complete strangers, sometimes without anyone even knowing. I rarely speak of any of this because I feel that to tell others would be self-serving and I do not want that. Although many of my friends at home, at work, around town, and on social media are kind with words of praise, I do not feel that I deserve it. I am no saint and I am no hero. What I am is an ordinary, middle-aged, overweight, Irish-Catholic man with many flaws. I am NOT posting this to seek support or disdain. Sometimes I just feel the need to get philosophical. And, since today is my 45th birthday, I am asking for a present from all of YOU! And, heres the kicker: I dont even need to know about it! Do something nice for someone in need. Maybe an elderly person needs help getting their husband or wife into or out of the car at Walmart....maybe that homeless guy standing on the median isnt just a bum looking for a handout .........put a few bucks in the collection can for whatever charity is collecting....better yet, go to church and give there....do SOMETHING for SOMEONE other than yourself. And dont tell another SOUL about it (not even me). Leave it between you and God. And somehow, Ill know too. So once again, thank you for nearly 400 birthday wishes! I am TRULY BLESSED!
Posted on: Sun, 09 Nov 2014 01:47:34 +0000
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