What Really Matters?

byMichaelKiff

80 followers

10 years ago

In lieu of what happened in Paris, France this past Friday night I pondered my own immortality and what really matters in this life. For many years, I busted my hump to chase the almighty dollar working for some very prestigious firms in a variety of industries. I had the house, the cars and the lifestyle that I thought made me happy, but I was not really happy I was living a lifestyle that everyone told me was the American Dream.

On top of all his success, I had debt, stuff and a whole lot of angst. For years, I juggled the bills and worried could I make my payments, could I make my boss happy and would I lose my job to economic downturns?

It's funny how life works in that sometimes life and/or God makes your decisions for you and you are left standing there trying to figure out just exactly what your next steps may be. This happened to me. I found myself getting divorced after 25 years of marriage and no sooner had I gotten over that hurdle I lost my job through no fault of my own.

When things like this happen it causes one to "take stock" and reassess. I would suspect that is exactly what the victims and non-victims in Paris did this week.

So what is important in this life?

1. Health - If you are not healthy nothing else matters so I believe it should be our goal to take care of ourselves on a daily basis. If you become sick or worse yet contract an incurable disease or become disabled in some way it will limit what you can do in this life.
2. Relationships - are very important. One needs to love their wife or the significant other. We should treasure our family, friends and, colleagues because life is so much more enjoyable with people we can laugh and share companionship with. It is a fact that we live a much more enjoyable life when we surround ourselves with framily and friends.
3. Passion - One needs to have a passion in this life. We need to have a reason to get up in the morning and make the most of every day we are on the face of this earth. Having a passion for what we do gives our life a real sense of purpose
4. Growth - We need to expand our minds and grow every day as a person. If you are not growing intellectually and spiritually, chances are you will die before your time.
5. Contribution - Everyone needs to give to others or to back a worthy cause that helps others. Here’s an important life lesson: no matter how tough you think your life is there’s always someone who has to face challenges that are even tougher than yours. Helping the misfortunate actually helps you grow as a person and helps others and the community to grow as well.

I have determined that these five areas ar the most important areas for me to concentrate on in the future. Perhaps it is time for you to revisit your life as well and decide to live the life you design instead of one that others tell you to aspire to.