What’s a moment in your life that made you feel truly alive?
The moment I asked myself what the purpose of my life was—that was when I felt truly alive. I was four years old, and the question was born of a wound: the aching sense that my father did not love me.
Growing up, I came to see that what first seemed a curse was a blessing in disguise. Through trials, I grew resilient; I came to grasp the meaning of hardship and suffering, and to forge the strength of character—bravery, confidence, endurance, and independence—needed to conquer a difficult life. By grace, I built a lifelong career and pressed on towards further milestones with clear purpose.
Since I began visiting hospital patients nine years ago, I have witnessed hundreds of lived stories. Some were ravaged by incurable disease, losing all will to carry on. Yet others felt truly alive—battling cancer, enduring lifelong and devastating illness. Who, or what, shapes the state of their minds?
The reasons vary, undoubtedly. But one underlying truth I discern: character determines destiny. Happiness rests on contentment; yet painful trials may awaken the inner compass to desire ultimate victory. The saying what makes you sick will cure you rings vividly true in these patients. So too does this: who troubles your heart, who cures you. That mirrors my experience at four years old.
After today’s hospital rounds—where four patients’ hearts were touched by the love of Jesus Christ—I sit on my comfrey sofa, gazing at the darkening sky, pondering in deeper meditation. This is the moment of truth. By grace, I am alive in peace, able to share love with those who need love and support to move on.
I pray to the Lord Jesus—the Lord of Life—that all patients may sit up, or stand, to appreciate the beauty of nature and give praise to its Creator.
May this poem be a praise pleasing to God. May it stir in you to offer your own praise, pleasing to Him as well.
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✨Reverent Praise✨
How wondrous, Lord, the works You made—
all things first formed, then humankind.
Vast universe—where am I found?
A speck of dust, of no account.
Yet in Your eyes I am a treasure;
Your only Son, our sins to sever.
Through ages past Your love unchanged—
with joy I see all souls reclaimed.
The Alpha, Omega—Christ alone.
All glory, praise be to our God on throne.
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