There’s something about reading an obituary that puts your life into focus. I always wonder what puts an obituary on the front page of the New York Times with full pages inside versus only a half-page sandwiched in between the business section and the sports page.
Certain figures such as John Lewis and Madeleine Albright belong on the front page but why a fashion designer? Probably says something about how I view the world, I guess. Some obituaries bring back memories, like Irene Pappas in The Guns of Navarone or Zorba the Greek. Others, of people I had never heard of like Saul Kripke, make me realize how little I have read in certain disciplines like literature or philosophy.
Other obituaries, especially of the young, bring to mind the transience of life, how quickly it can end due to a freak accident or a horrific natural event. How is it that we measure a life and what that person has given to the world?
Prayer for the Day
Make us not only mindful of the time we have, O God,
But of what we can do with our lives here on earth;
May we use our days to broaden the circle of your care,
So that our years may be held in your heart.
In the name of the One who calls us to live more fully,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Any necessary truth, whether a priori or a posteriori, could not have turned out otherwise.
- Sul Kripke, philosopher, CUNY professor (1940-2022)
I really do think about the fact that every day counts. Every individual counts, and so I believe that every day counts and try not to waste it.
- Madeleine Albright, diplomat (1937-2022)
Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth,
Or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
From everlasting to everlasting you are God.
You turn us back to dust, and say, “Turn back, you mortals,”
For a thousand years in our sight are like yesterday when it is past,
Or like a watch in the night.
Psalm 90: 1-4