Seriously: What constitutes a life well-lived?

[RiderOnTheStorm]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?

[Daxdog]

I watched a tv show called “How to do Florida “ had a lady from TV, said she never had a broken bone, never had to see a doc. That isn’t a well lived life. A well lived life of any kind is dangerous and full of bumps! JMO!

[manaboutown]

Queen Elizabeth had a life well lived.

[fdpaq0580]

If you did more good than harm. If you made more friends than enemies. If you brought more joy than sorrow. If someone misses you when you're gone, then you did pretty well in my book. 🌈🙏

[Babubhat]

Could not care less

[vintageogauge]

I have many regrets, have many sorrows, and have made many enemies. I also have had many successes and achievements, made many friends, and have had lots of joy. It all balances out to a very full life as I can honestly say I have experienced it all, both good and bad.

[Taltarzac725]

I ain't done yet.

[mikeycereal]

The person is a success who has lived well, loved much, and laughed often.” — Robert Louis Stevenson

[Stu from NYC]

Could not care less

Thank you for those thoughts.

I would say you helped make the world a better place than when you entered it.

[fdpaq0580]

Could not care less

I don't believe you. You cared enough to respond on this. Zero response is the true indication of not caring at all.

[fdpaq0580]

I ain't done yet.

That's the spirit! Keep up the good work.😊

[jswirs]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?

Loving, helping and truly caring about others. Using our gifts to do so. When and where we can. "To whom much is given, much is required".

[oneclickplus]

[QUOTE=What constitutes a life well-lived?[/QUOTE]

The answers will vary as it depends on whose standard one uses to measure. I try to use this standard:

Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness ...

[La lamy]

I always hear parents say that having kids was their greatest achievement. I never got to do that, so perhaps teaching may have been mine. Inspiring the next generation to be the best version of themselves, taking on their future with courage, dedication, ethics, fairness and optimism is what I tried to 'achieve'.

[nick demis]

Both of my wife's sisters are envious of what we done, and both are wealthier than us.

[jimbomaybe]

When you come into the world your crying and everyone else is smiling, when you leave your smiling and everyone else is crying

[57alleymae]

I always hear parents say that having kids was their greatest achievement. I never got to do that, so perhaps teaching may have been mine. Inspiring the next generation to be the best version of themselves, taking on their future with courage, dedication, ethics, fairness and optimism is what I tried to 'achieve'.

My great achievement was developing a relationship with God. His love brought me through all the bumps in the road. He taught me how to give unconditional love and how to forgive .

[kendi]

A life well lived is defined by one’s character rather than accomplishments. The best of characters are shaped when the focus is on God’s love and His ultimate desire for us.

[Jeanette.U]

Reflections on Aging by Edwin W Truesdale
When my hair is thin and silvered
And my time of toil is through
When I’ve many years behind me
And ahead of me is few
I shall want to sit I reckon
Sort of dreaming in the sun
And recall the roads I’ve traveled
And the many things I’ve done.

I hope there is no picture
That I’ll hate to look upon,
When the time to paint it better
Or to wipe it out is gone.
I hope there’ll be no vision
Of a hasty word I’ve said
That has left a trail of sorrow
Like a whip welt sore and red.

And I hope my old age dreaming
Will bring back no bitter scene
Of a time when I was selfish
Or a time when I was mean.
When I’m getting old and feeble
And I’m far along life’s way
I don’t want to sit regretting
Any bygone yesterday.

I am painting now the picture
That I’ll one day want to see
I am filling in the canvas
That will soon come back to me.
Though nothing great is on it
And though nothing there is fine
I shall want to look it over
When I’m old, and call it mine.
So I do not dare to leave it
While the paint is warm and wet
With a single thing upon it
That I later will regret.

[Worldseries27]

my great achievement was developing a relationship with god. His love brought me through all the bumps in the road. He taught me how to give unconditional love and how to forgive .
what you call " bumps" i call if you don't get on your knees , god will put you them, one way or another. Our grading our lives is not the real issue. The answer to your query is , are you prepared to meet your maker?

[butlerperkins@gmail.com]

2022 0916 Friday @ 07:57
It seems to me that some move through life keeping a lot of the bad alongside the good. What I am referring to are the memories of the bad being kept alongside the good. My default is not that way. My default is to keep the good in mind (and heart).

With that in mind, I see the accumulation of years and their memories as a whole lot of good. That is how I feel. That is how I feel when asked to reflect on the past.

I do like the response above about looking at one's children. I do so enjoy seeing my two children get together (one girl and one boy [young woman and young man; nine years apart]). They live in different countries (my son lives in TV; she lives in Florence, IT). When they are together, they are amazing.

Also
I am not so sure regarding the post about the queen (having lived a "full" life). She compromised nearly all of her life. She was "always" the queen and, as such, had no opinion (vs Charles who advocates, for example, for climate intervention, etc.). The queen was expected to be a queen, which she did exceptionally. She just didn't t have much of an opportunity to "let her hair down."

I suggest that keeping one's spirit elevated requires jettisoning those who would "bring you down." However, if in the presence of one who would do so (even if married to one of that ilk), I would suggest calling upon your formidable resources, like resiliency (and selective dementia).

If you can not find peace in a garden, through all of its seasons, you may have missed something in this life.

To those who reach for God to "find their place," I wonder how your life would have unfolded in the absence of God. Simply stated, what if a few turn of events through life would have bypassed religious education? What if you "didn't know" religion? Would you have found happiness? Would you have been fulfilled? I am not "educated in religion." However, I take exceptional joy in all the God has provided. I am so very thankful for the opportunity to live my life and I do look to Him (Her) who has made it possible.

Life has been wonderful to date. As one said it above, it isn't over. There is so much yet to experience. I will definitely find joy in today, and tomorrow, and the day after....

[stargirl]

Then don’t answer!Could not care less

[jrandall]

If you did more good than harm. If you made more friends than enemies. If you brought more joy than sorrow. If someone misses you when you're gone, then you did pretty well in my book. 🌈🙏

Agree wonderful answer

[MrFlorida]

Riding this train to the last station to see where I end up .

[Velvet]

When you come into the world your crying and everyone else is smiling, when you leave your smiling and everyone else is crying

Exactly what I would have liked to say!

Little more specifically; having adventures, good friends, a loving family, having contributed. Feeling that you have done or are doing, right now, what you really want to do. And leaving a legacy in a way that you may be remembered the way you want people to think of you.

You don’t need me to quote the Bible, someone else has done it (which I believe in, by the way). So I will quote what the famous Hell’s Angel, Sonny Barger, said on his dying day: “Keep your head high, stay loyal, remain free, and always value honor.”

[Two Bills]

When you come into the world your crying and everyone else is smiling, when you leave your smiling and everyone else is crying

Just as I was born in London, Hitler started bombing us!:22yikes:

[roob1]

Quite sure you did a great job!

I always hear parents say that having kids was their greatest achievement. I never got to do that, so perhaps teaching may have been mine. Inspiring the next generation to be the best version of themselves, taking on their future with courage, dedication, ethics, fairness and optimism is what I tried to 'achieve'.

[Worldseries27]

as we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts villagers?
when faces come out of the rain.

[chrissy2231]

Read this book: Gary Zukav "Seat of the Soul" to understand life. You'll find the answer to your post and so will all the repliers!
Here's the web site: Home - The Seat of the Soul Institute (https://seatofthesoul.com/)

On the lighter side, come laugh your troubles away.
Improv 2022 - Show on Friday 10/28/22 6PM-7:30PM

Ticket Information:
Improv 2022 - Show on Friday 10-28-22 Tickets, Rohan Regional Recreation Center, The Villages, October 28 2022 | AllEvents.in (https://allevents.in/the%20villages/improv-2022-show-on-friday-10-28-22/80005306204115)

To Purchase Tickets:
Book Tickets (https://allevents.in/manage/tickets/book.php?event_id=80005306204115)

For more information contact: Mike Roth 513-646-6523

[dewilson58]

Accumulating 5,000 posts on ToTV.

:posting:

:oops:

[LuvNH]

I always hear parents say that having kids was their greatest achievement. I never got to do that, so perhaps teaching may have been mine. Inspiring the next generation to be the best version of themselves, taking on their future with courage, dedication, ethics, fairness and optimism is what I tried to 'achieve'.

My family background is mainly nurses and teachers. I have two grown children and they will often refer to the influence a certain teacher had on their lives. Everyone needs a mentor and someone they can trust.

[rsibole]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?

Life itself is no accident, it is a miracle - God's miracle not to be wasted. One lives in the hope of becoming a memory, lives with hope of life eternal and in the assurance that "neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39).

Be an example and inspiration to all those around you, especially to your beloved family. And above all, Thankfulness is the beginning of happiness, gratitude turns what we have into enough and daily prayers of thanksgiving for the abundance in life gives contentment.‬ This is how to live in peace and having a life well lived.

[fdpaq0580]

Accumulating 5,000 posts on ToTV.

:posting:

:oops:

O.K., I'll laugh at this. 😄😄😄 pretty funny.

[Worldseries27]

my great achievement was developing a relationship with god. His love brought me through all the bumps in the road. He taught me how to give unconditional love and how to forgive .
this is as close as to psychotherapy as it gets. Heres my take. I've read many aspiring responses in villager's responses but i found in my own life that events occur especially with family members who you can forgive, but who could care less that you do so. In these circumstances i've adopted the mind set of west bound european and american pioneers who knew as they embarked on their life's journey they would never see their loved ones again. It hurts, but it's best for all concerned. We do not all have father/ mother knows best lives.

[Garywt]

My daughter and grandson gave me a shirt that says something like being a great dad leads to being an awesome Papa. To me that says it all. Did I do everything perfect or do all I could do, absolutely not but I feel I did good. Being diagnosed with incurable cancer at age 49 really made me think, now 9 year later we are still living. From many family vacations to camping to 19 years as a Scout leader to many years of coaching soccer, baseball, softball and basketball to meting involved in their school as 4 years of PTO President, 8 years running the annual wrapping paper sale and 9 years of running the annual haunted house I got to spend so much time with the 3 kids, my wife and all their friends. This was all so special.

Now it is grand children time, currently 2 (7&3) and soon to be 3, maybe this week and #4 comes in March. It is so exciting.

So toys, yes most have them and I told my wife to sell any and all once I am gone. House in MA, house in the Villages, camper in NH, camper to travel with, timeshare in Aruba, my F350 and my beloved boat.

One of my greatest joys is that all 3 kids still camp and many times with us. Our daughter and grandson are joining us in Aruba which is huge and I still have 2 to get to Florida to visit.

To quote a movie, It has been a Wonderful Life.

[Bellavita]

What a sad reply


Could not care less

[toeser]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?

If one could live one's life over again, how many things would you do the same and how many things would you change? I would not change 80-90% of what I did, so for me, that was a life well lived.

[Donegalkid]

I always hear parents say that having kids was their greatest achievement. I never got to do that, so perhaps teaching may have been mine. Inspiring the next generation to be the best version of themselves, taking on their future with courage, dedication, ethics, fairness and optimism is what I tried to 'achieve'.

Very well said. Keys to the kingdom. And as we all learn — sometimes only at the very end — “All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice.
[And] be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you …”

[dstinchcomb2@yahoo.com]

The answers will vary as it depends on whose standard one uses to measure. I try to use this standard:

Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness ...
Agreed, after screwing things up for 70 years I now see that God's kingdom is the only thing that matters.

[HospitalCoder]

Living by the golden rule and mindful thankfulness is at the core for me.
When I fail at either one, I’m disappointed in myself. I have a plaque with a quote questionably attributed to Abe Lincoln: “When I do good I feel good, when I do bad I feel bad, and that’s my religion.”

That’s the core. The other part of the equation for me to have a life well lived is to do what makes me happy. If that means staying home and reading or doing crosswords or whatever, I do it. There can be a lot of pressure in The Villages to be active all the time and to have a full calendar. If that makes you happy, go for it. But personally a full calendar means not enough me time. I’m a friendly introvert. I walk among you, smile, and joke, but I can’t wait to get home and curl up in my own private paradise I call home.

[Luggage]

risk is certainly part of life. travel , doing good for the community, making some enemies, ticking sme one off .. all part of a good life and a few beers ....

[HospitalCoder]

risk is certainly part of life. travel , doing good for the community, making some enemies, ticking sme one off .. all part of a good life and a few beers ....

Ah yes, drinks with friends 🍷🍻🥤near the top of my gratitude list 🥰

[Aterwill]

Here's a great reference from my former colleague, Chuck Colson. He asked the same question using an illustration from the movie, 'Saving Private Ryan'. If one is really interested in pursing this topic, I'd recommend his book, "The Good Life".

"Captain Miller lay close by where he had been hit, his back slumped against the bridge’s wall. Ryan, in anguish, was alone with his rescuer in the final moments before Miller died. Ryan watched as the captain struggled in his last moments, shot clean through one lung. The captain wouldn’t take another breath, except to grunt, “James. Earn this … earn it.” Were these dying words a final order or charge? Private Ryan has always taken it that way. These memories rivet the aged James Ryan, who now finds himself staring at the grave marker and mumbling to his dead commander. He tells Captain Miller that his family is with him. He confesses that he wasn’t sure how he would feel about coming to the cemetery today. He wants Captain Miller to know that every day of his life he’s thought of their conversation at the bridge, of Miller’s dying words. Ryan has tried to live a good life, and he hopes he has. At least in the captain’s eyes, he hopes he’s “earned it,” that his life has been worthy of the sacrifice Captain Miller and the other men made of giving their lives for his. As Ryan mutters these thoughts, he cannot help wondering how any life, however well lived, could be worthy of his friends’ sacrifice. The old man stands up, but he doesn’t feel released. The question remains unanswered. His wife comes to his side again. He looks at her and pleads, “Tell me I’ve led a good life.” Confused by his request, she responds with a question: “What?” He has to know the answer. He tries to articulate it again: “Tell me I’m a good man.” The request flusters her, but his earnestness makes her think better of putting it off. With great dignity, she says, “You are.”
― Charles W. Colson, The Good Life

[Innserelli]

Many people I meet tell me they just try to follow the ten commandments, but few, when asked, can recite more than about half. You may recall that Jesus said there are 2 great commands. Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and Love your neighbor as yourself. These two sum up all the rules of right living. Most of the responses in this string are some form of the second command but there is little said in this string about the first. The first is more important because it makes the second possible. When one puts God first, it forces you to get your focus off yourself, away from self concern, self convenience, self love so that you can honestly do the second, and truly touch people's lives.

I am a Jesus follower and I think a life well lived means a living life of significance. When you follow Jesus your life inevitably gains significance. Everything you do, you try to do for God and for others, not because of earning a legacy but for the sheer appreciation for what the God of the universe has done for you in Jesus. Every life touched in this life for Christ moves that person beyond the earthly to an eternal life that has so much more significance than anything that can be found on this planet.

We have limited time on this plant and most of us in TV are getting pretty close to the end. Time to really be honest about the significance of our accomplishments. You gotta have a reason for life that is bigger than yourself.

[Aterwill]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?

Great discussion! A question that my former colleague and boss, Chuck Colson, spoke to often and best illustrated from a great movie, 'Saving Private Ryan". Anyone interested in pursuing this question more would enjoy his book 'The Good Life'.

Here's his quote: “Captain Miller lay close by where he had been hit, his back slumped against the bridge’s wall. Ryan, in anguish, was alone with his rescuer in the final moments before Miller died. Ryan watched as the captain struggled in his last moments, shot clean through one lung. The captain wouldn’t take another breath, except to grunt, “James. Earn this … earn it.” Were these dying words a final order or charge? Private Ryan has always taken it that way. These memories rivet the aged James Ryan, who now finds himself staring at the grave marker and mumbling to his dead commander. He tells Captain Miller that his family is with him. He confesses that he wasn’t sure how he would feel about coming to the cemetery today. He wants Captain Miller to know that every day of his life he’s thought of their conversation at the bridge, of Miller’s dying words. Ryan has tried to live a good life, and he hopes he has. At least in the captain’s eyes, he hopes he’s “earned it,” that his life has been worthy of the sacrifice Captain Miller and the other men made of giving their lives for his. As Ryan mutters these thoughts, he cannot help wondering how any life, however well lived, could be worthy of his friends’ sacrifice. The old man stands up, but he doesn’t feel released. The question remains unanswered. His wife comes to his side again. He looks at her and pleads, “Tell me I’ve led a good life.” Confused by his request, she responds with a question: “What?” He has to know the answer. He tries to articulate it again: “Tell me I’m a good man.” The request flusters her, but his earnestness makes her think better of putting it off. With great dignity, she says, “You are.”
― Charles W. Colson, The Good Life

[Two Bills]

Do people seriously believe all this God stuff, or is it old age insurance, "Just in Case?" :shrug:

[Worldseries27]

living by the golden rule and mindful thankfulness is at the core for me.
When i fail at either one, i’m disappointed in myself. I have a plaque with a quote questionably attributed to abe lincoln: “when i do good i feel good, when i do bad i feel bad, and that’s my religion.”

that’s the core. The other part of the equation for me to have a life well lived is to do what makes me happy. If that means staying home and reading or doing crosswords or whatever, i do it. There can be a lot of pressure in the villages to be active all the time and to have a full calendar. If that makes you happy, go for it. But personally a full calendar means not enough me time. I’m a friendly introvert. I walk among you, smile, and joke, but i can’t wait to get home and curl up in my own private paradise i call home.
you are not alone

[Worldseries27]

do people seriously believe all this god stuff, or is it old age insurance, "just in case?" :shrug:
all the religious ceremony surrounding your queens ascension and death and i never heard one disparaging comment.
This thread appears and what???

[fdpaq0580]

If one could live one's life over again, how many things would you do the same and how many things would you change? I would not change 80-90% of what I did, so for me, that was a life well lived.

Make one change and everything that follows will also be changed. That is assuming you even could change something. It is all speculation until it actually happens, but would anyone be aware that the fabric of time had been altered?

[fdpaq0580]

Do people seriously believe all this God stuff, or is it old age insurance, "Just in Case?" :shrug:

Some really do. Some want to, but aren't really sure. And others don't. In the end belief in the supernatural is not what determines if a life was well lived anymore than collecting the most trinkets. The one who called themself a friendly introvert alluded to it. It is learning to love yourself and accept yourself for who and what you really are.

[Velvet]

Do people seriously believe all this God stuff, or is it old age insurance, "Just in Case?" :shrug:

Some people not only believe “this God stuff” but have had some type of experience with it. I do understand that people who have not experienced any sort of revelation may have a hard time believing that any of it is true. I have difficulty accepting beliefs myself as beliefs are not based on knowledge, one can be mistaken, as during Columbus’ time when many people believed the earth was flat. But when it comes to the Creator, those that have had some sort of revelation, experience, whatever one wants to call it, they know. Not only believe - but know. Those who have not had any revelation, usually think that these people are nuts. It is like trying to explain colors to a blind person. The blind guy is going to think the other person is crazy.

So Bill, I would like to say, the Creator is real, I not only believe, but I know.

[Two Bills]

all the religious ceremony surrounding your queens ascension and death and i never heard one disparaging comment.
This thread appears and what???

I would never think of making a disparaging comment of my Queen!
She was a great lady, and if all the religious part of the procedure gives comfort and hope to family and subjects, Good.
That part of the funeral ceremony does nothing for me.
I would never make a disparaging remark about someones religious beliefs.
My wife loves her God, and is a follower. We just agree to disagree on that subject.
I just have no belief myself.
Nothing wrong with asking a question.

[fdpaq0580]

Some people not only believe “this God stuff” but have had some type of experience with it. I do understand that people who have not experienced any sort of revelation may have a hard time believing that any of it is true. I have difficulty accepting beliefs myself as beliefs are not based on knowledge, one can be mistaken, as during Columbus’ time when many people believed the earth was flat. But when it comes to the Creator, those that have had some sort of revelation, experience, whatever one wants to call it, they know. Not only believe - but know. Those who have not had any revelation, usually think that these people are nuts. It is like trying to explain colors to a blind person. The blind guy is going to think the other person is crazy.

So Bill, I would like to say, the Creator is real, I not only believe, but I know.

My revelation was quite the reverse. I "know" too, that's why I don't "believe".
People of all faiths "know" their God or gods are real. Real to them and have purpose and importance in their lives. But each life is different and what may be a revelation to one is just a coincidence to another, or a predictable outcome to a third person. When it comes to our deepest personal beliefs, our faith or lack of it, we are all correct.

[Velvet]

My revelation was quite the reverse. I "know" too, that's why I don't "believe".
People of all faiths "know" their God or gods are real. Real to them and have purpose and importance in their lives. But each life is different and what may be a revelation to one is just a coincidence to another, or a predictable outcome to a third person. When it comes to our deepest personal beliefs, our faith or lack of it, we are all correct.

I agree. We are all correct in that we know only what we have been exposed to. I, for example, have no idea what it must be like to live on Mars or Venus. And the problem when it comes to proving divinity as, for example, proving that combining hydrogen and oxygen results in water, is that divine is not in our personal control. I cannot ask God to come for dinner so you can meet Him. Therefore, it is easy to conclude, well, He obviously does not exist.

[fdpaq0580]

I agree. We are all correct in that we know only what we have been exposed to. I, for example, have no idea what it must be like to live on Mars or Venus. And the problem when it comes to proving divinity as, for example, proving that combining hydrogen and oxygen results in water, is that divine is not in our personal control. I cannot ask God to come for dinner so you can meet Him. Therefore, it is easy to conclude, well, He obviously does not exist.

I believe you could invite God to dinner, but expect that he is busy and may not come or even RSVP. Then again, he just might surprise you and show up. I'm sure he will appreciate being invited, and would be delighted with whatever you served.
A lot of people give thanks for their food. Many less actually think to invite God to sit at their table and share it with them.
It never hurts to ask. 😌🙏

[Velvet]

I believe you could invite God to dinner, but expect that he is busy and may not come or even RSVP. Then again, he just might surprise you and show up. I'm sure he will appreciate being invited, and would be delighted with whatever you served.
A lot of people give thanks for their food. Many less actually think to invite God to sit at their table and share it with them.
It never hurts to ask. ������������

LOL yes, I suppose you could ask the empire building for dinner too, it is not likely to show up though. (The divine has different properties than we have, but I think you know that already.)

[fdpaq0580]

LOL yes, I suppose you could ask the empire building for dinner too, it is not likely to show up though. (The divine has different properties than we have, but I think you know that already.)

I think you may have misinterpreted my comments. I was not poking fun or making a joke. Just to be clear, I am not an atheist, exactly. I'm more of a (for lack of a better term) spiritual agnostic. I don't accept the normal/usual definitions of God, but I sense or suspect something infinitely indefinable and not likely to involve itself with us. Still, I will always ask for help, guidance, or share my meal while we have a chat. Some may call it prayer or meditation (or in my case, some nut talking to himself), but sometimes new thoughts arise that allow me to see things in a different light.
😊👃

[Velvet]

I think you may have misinterpreted my comments. I was not poking fun or making a joke. Just to be clear, I am not an atheist, exactly. I'm more of a (for lack of a better term) spiritual agnostic. I don't accept the normal/usual definitions of God, but I sense or suspect something infinitely indefinable and not likely to involve itself with us. Still, I will always ask for help, guidance, or share my meal while we have a chat. Some may call it prayer or meditation (or in my case, some nut talking to himself), but sometimes new thoughts arise that allow me to see things in a different light.
😊👃
Thank you for explaining.

[CFrance]

I think you may have misinterpreted my comments. I was not poking fun or making a joke. Just to be clear, I am not an atheist, exactly. I'm more of a (for lack of a better term) spiritual agnostic. I don't accept the normal/usual definitions of God, but I sense or suspect something infinitely indefinable and not likely to involve itself with us. Still, I will always ask for help, guidance, or share my meal while we have a chat. Some may call it prayer or meditation (or in my case, some nut talking to himself), but sometimes new thoughts arise that allow me to see things in a different light.
😊👃
Your posts are blowing me away. I believe you've hit the nail on my head. Thank you for organizing my scattered theological thoughts.

[sdifede313@aol.com]

Queen Elizabeth had a life well lived.
“You can’t argue with a sick mind.” Joe Walsh.

[fdpaq0580]

“You can’t argue with a sick mind.” Joe Walsh.

I'm sure it happens quite often.

[fdpaq0580]

Your posts are blowing me away. I believe you've hit the nail on my head. Thank you for organizing my scattered theological thoughts.

So pleased you consider my thoughts worthy of a response. Keep thinking, searching, questioning. To paraphrase a line from an old show, your truth is out there. 😌🙏

[MorTech]

Body Count.

-Leonardo DeCaprio

[chrissy2231]

I believe you could invite God to dinner, but expect that he is busy and may not come or even RSVP. Then again, he just might surprise you and show up. I'm sure he will appreciate being invited, and would be delighted with whatever you served.
A lot of people give thanks for their food. Many less actually think to invite God to sit at their table and share it with them.
It never hurts to ask. 😌🙏
God is always there for "HE" lives inside us.

[chrissy2231]

Both of my wife's sisters are envious of what we done, and both are wealthier than us.
Very strange response and surely didn't answer the question.

[fdpaq0580]

God is always there for "HE" lives inside us.

That is one reason why you don't need to go to church, because all you really need do is talk to yourself. Even your deepest thoughts are not private.

[chrissy2231]

As we approach the twilight of our lives it is easy to reflect upon the quality of the life we have lived; memorable achievements, things we didn't do or wished we had, lasting legacies, etc. I think it would be very interesting to discuss what Village residents, experienced with life, consider a life well-lived; not the usual cheap cliches such as "accumulating the most toys" or even financial wealth which is but one small measure of success, but rather diverse and meaningful measures of a good life spent; things that will bring a smile to your face when your time ultimately comes. Serious thoughts Villagers?
A life well lived needs these characteristics, and I could go on and on...


Being authentic, a good listener, understanding, forgiving, helpful, giving, loving, accepting, kind, generous, friendly, clean, Loyal, Trustworthy, Dependable, Open-Minded, good attitude, be a mentor, flexible, responsible, respectful, compassionate, unselfish, patient, peaceful, conscientious, rational, moral, inspirational, positive, Integrity, being fair, negotiating, well mannered, self-discipline, perseverance, optimistic, Considerate, and add your own!

[salpal]

Loving, helping and truly caring about others. Using our gifts to do so. When and where we can. "To whom much is given, much is required".

The best response yet. Be generous of your time, talent and treasure, you will never regret it. Do you want your legacy to be something like "well, so and so shaved 3 points off their golf score".

[Byte1]

I won't know if I can consider my life well lived until I appear before GOD for his judgement. I doubt there are very many folks in this world that will be very proud of watching their life replayed before them. Many folks are ready and happy to live, but how many will be happy when they die?

[fdpaq0580]

Very strange response and surely didn't answer the question.

I think the point of Nick"s post is, "you can't buy happiness". If my interpretation is correct, then I think it does relate.