This year has been challenging so far. I haven’t written  much on this blog due to many difficult situations in my life and the lives of others. Sometimes life isn’t fair and these traumatic events are a reminder how precious life and time is. Do you give of yourself or lend a hand when others are suffering?

A former teaching colleague of mine died from ALS at the age of fifty-one after an eighteen month battle. She wasn’t ready to retire, her family wasn’t ready to lose her, and no one understands why things like this happen. She was a beautiful person with a beautiful life ahead. Despite what was happening to her body, she remained an inspiration to others and she was the one encouraging them. She kept her sense of humor and dignity as her body failed and leaves that legacy behind. What legacy are you leaving behind?

Several people I know have lost parents in recent months. Their ailments were a reminder to me of my own aging process. I do my best to stay healthy, but I have noticed I no longer can do certain things although I am still very active. I am doing this for my family, too. Are you taking care of yourself?

My sister just lost her husband unexpectedly. Even though they had a will, the thought of one of them dying while on vacation was not something they prepared for or thought could happen. There are so many things to consider and take care of when someone dies. Does your family know what your wishes are? Do you have a will? Do you have a health proxy?

Grieving is a process and takes time. People who are grieving need a support system and it takes time to work through loss. There is not a set amount of time in the process either. One person told me that one of their acquaintances thought a month was enough time. There is always going to be a void where that person filled a life. Can you help someone work through their grief?

Most importantly, are you ready for the end of your life? Have you made a commitment to Jesus our Savior? Does your life reflect the fact that you are Christian? Are you a good steward of your time?

I recently did a powerful Bible study called The Broken Way by Ann Voskamp. She shares how we all are broken and by sharing our brokenness we are helping others who are also broken. We were meant to share it, not hide it and pretend we have life under control at all times. Jesus had his body broken for us. Helping might mean giving up some of your time or maybe it can be the smallest kind gesture during the day – like a smile. Annoften shares a calendar on her Facebook page that has great ideas. This sharing might also be inconvenient. Showing up and listening when it means giving up coffee with friends, going to the gym, shopping or reading that book. Part of the study talked about giving in places that we don’t feel comfortable in. The world is a hurting world and Christ called us to share with those people who are not able to give back. He used the example of inviting people to dinner who will never invite you back because they can’t. This is what being a Christian is all about. I encourage you to read her book or do her study. You won’t be disappointed.

It is never too late to change your legacy. There is a hurting world out there that needs hope. Be the light you were meant to be. Be ready to help where you are needed.