Cause to Remember

 

During my day, I was reminded that mortal life is finite and only a spiritual plan has real merit.

The first text I received this morning was a quote by Hans Christian Andersen: "My life will be the best illustration of all my work." In response to my friend's text, I replied, "Let me be remembered not for what I possessed, but for the love I shared and the gratitude I held for the extraordinary gift of humanity." Both Andersen’s quote and my own assume we are remembered at all.

Following this text exchange, I was called upon to review a cremation contract concerning the disposal of my physical body after the living spirit's departure. And if this was not enough, I finished the day with dinner, where one of the subjects was “the Plan of Salvation.” As dense as I can be from time to time, I believe the “Universe” has been sending me a subtle message all day.

In keeping with the theme of being remembered, I am reminded of two expressions from the AA program:

• "Our real purpose is to fit ourselves to be of maximum service to God and the people about us."
  — Alcoholics Anonymous (The Big Book), p. 77

• "I am responsible. When anyone, anywhere, reaches out for help, I want the hand of AA always to be there. And for that: I am responsible."
  — AA Responsibility Declaration

In harmony with Hans Christian Andersen’s quote, I reflect on scriptural teachings that emphasize a life of love, service, and spiritual purpose:

• "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
  — Micah 6:8 (Bible, Old Testament / Torah)

• "For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man."
  — Moses 1:39, Pearl of Great Price

• "When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."
  — Mosiah 2:17, Book of Mormon

Through these experiences and reflections, I feel compelled to live a life where my actions speak louder than my words, where my service to others and my gratitude for the gift of life are the true legacies I leave behind. For in the end, it is not what we possess that will be remembered, but the love we shared and the light we brought into the world.