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Viewpoint from Rev Brian Hall 12/05/2017
 Rev Brian Hall
Vicar, St Andrew’s Church, Gorleston
as published in the Yarmouth Mercury
What is life all about?
A conference speaker addressed a room of over 50s on the brevity of life and concluded by saying that he would like the following inscribed on his tombstone: “When I reach the end of my days, a moment or two from now, I must look backward on something more meaningful than the pursuit of houses and land and machines and stocks and bonds. Nor is the fame of any a lasting benefit. I will consider my earthly existence to have been wasted unless I can recall a loving family, a consistent investment in the lives of people, and an earnest attempt to serve the God who made me. Nothing else makes much sense”
 For centuries people have searched for the meaning to their existence. Why am I here? Does life have a purpose? St. Paul tells us “It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for” (Ephesians 1:11 the Bible) Nothing makes you focus on what's really important in life more intensely than losing someone you love
A couple had a son who died at the age of 21 after struggled to survive an incurable skin disease. They reflected on the incredible privilege of being parents and how their son’s life had enriched their own. Usually, parents teach their children
But this particular son had a few things to teach his parents. Here are five things he taught them about life:
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every day is a gift from God. Don't waste it, but use it to the fullest. There isn't time to complain or fret about what can't be changed
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 laughter is the cushion for life. It helps smooth out the rough edges and makes the difficult places bearable. Nothing cures a heavy heart any faster than a good belly laugh!
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memories are the stuff that life is made of. Take time for celebrations, parties, family vacations, and hanging out with friends
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it’s okay to cry. Tears are good for you. There’s something about crying that helps to heal your heart and God really takes notice when we shed tears
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make sure your heart is right with God. “We are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus; so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago” (Ephesians 2:10 The Bible)
photo: courtesy of Stephen Gostick Photography
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