Richness Of Living

My aunt is really rich. She doesn’t have a big bank account, though. Still, I have known her to share the last penny in it to help someone in need. She doesn’t have a fancy, new car either, but she gets the most out of her old, used one giving rides to friends who can no longer drive themselves. Her home is no mansion. Yet, my childhood visits to it have filled my mind with treasured memories and my heart with priceless happiness. My aunt’s riches come instead from the places that high prices and inflation can never lessen. My aunt’s riches come from her loving soul, her generous spirit, and her joyous life.

Every time I speak with her on the phone or get a card from her in the mail the richness of that life shines though. Her gentle laughter has brightened my day many times over the years. Her optimism and faith have strengthened my own as well. Her kindness, caring, and happiness have helped so many people, touched so many souls, and done so much good in this world. When it comes to the treasures of Heaven she will forever be one of the wealthiest people I know. When it comes to finding the joy in living she will always be rich beyond compare. I only pray that one day we all can live with such priceless love.

Leo Buscaglia once wrote that, "We find the greatest riches where we find the joy in living; since we serve God and ourselves best in joy, it seems to be the only sensible goal in life." My dear aunt learned this a long time ago and she has spent her whole life teaching it to others as well. I am proud to have been one of her students and taken her course in the "Richness of Living 101." Thanks to her I daily choose more love, more joy, more laughter, and more life. Thanks to her I seek and share the treasures of Heaven always. Thanks to her I am far wealthier in oneness with God. May your own life grow rich as well in the things that truly matter.

~ Joseph J. Mazzella ~

[ by: Joseph J. Mazzella Copyright © 2008 (joecool@wirefire.com) -- submitted by: Joseph Mazzella ]