On Life 165 – That Is … – March 25, 2017

   Life is a journey in which we encounter one another. Such encounters might be long or transient. Yet, in all cases, we should enjoy and make others enjoy them as well. Also, we should pass it peacefully and help others do the same. This is the true meaning of life and happiness.

   Once upon a time a man entered a restaurant to have lunch. After finishing his meal, he asked for the bill. Then, as he put his hand in his pocket to bring the money out, he did not find his wallet! He felt confused, and started looking for it in his briefcase and his other pockets, but found nothing. He got perplexed, having made sure he had left it at work. He wondered what he should do. He tried to look for any money he might have forgotten in his briefcase, only to find nothing. So, he decided to inform the manager about it and leave him a precious ring as a guarantee until he brings the required money.

   No sooner than the man approached the manager, than the latter told him that the bill was paid! The man got surprised and asked who paid the bill. The manager said it was a man who his confusion as he was rummaging his pockets and briefcase, and realized that he forgot his money. So, he paid both bills. The man became a bit calm and asked, “How can I repay him them the money? I do not know either his name, address, or phone number.” The manager answered, “This is quite simple. All what you have to do is pay another man’s dues somewhere else!”

   Simply put, this story is symbolic of the meaning of life and happiness. What attracted my attention about it is not the man who forgot his wallet or the good manager, but that simple, unknown person who paid the bill quietly and left. It is likely that he went somewhere else to save someone’s else’s skin!

   How deep these kind hearts are! They sense others’ needs and provide them quietly, expecting nothing in return. Then, they disappear seeking to provide something good for another person who they do not know! These souls implant happiness wherever they are. In like manner soft breezes pass by untouched, imparting comfort, these souls do the same.

   So, be a source of comfort and happiness for others. Do not refrain from doing good unto people without their asking this of you. Rather, be shrewd enough to see, feel, and provide support through a gentle word, an encouragement, a piece of advice, or help: for one day you will encounter who gives you help without demanding it. This is the meaning of life.

General Bishop

Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center