Principles – Value of Life – 30/5/2015

   Do you think that life is valuable? I don’t think so. He paused and didn’t wait for an answer or even a comment. His mind was distracted. I reflected on his question; many images and ideas crossed my mind and I found myself thinking that indeed life is so valuable. We just have to realize that we are who make it valuable. Life is a free gift that some crown with work and production while others lose. Thus, we have to pause and evaluate the quality of our lives.

   A life with no moral principle is meaningless. One who gives up on his principles would give up on anything else. They say, whoever put his interests above his principles would eventually lose both. So, dear reader, do not compromise your principles as they are the source of your true strength, self-respect and all that remains if you lost everything else.

   H.H Pope Shenouda iii has said “The strong -hearted person would never be affected by a harsh word, disturbed by ill-treatment, induced by any temptations or moved by any stimulation whatsoever.He is always resilient and nothing controls him, despite his values and principles.” Indeed, immoral life is meaningless and powerless.

   Moreover, a life without toiling is not valuable. People crave for a chance to make success, however Edison answered them saying, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”You can’t have an opportunity without toiling. Dreamy people will find their opportunity in their sleeping only.

   If you really want to achieve success and lead a wonderful life, you have to keep on toiling and resilience. Solomon the Wise said, “The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing;

But the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.”

Work protects you from 3 evils boredom, vice and need.

   One who leads a valuable life should appreciate each and every moment of it, works and thinks a lot, talks less and gets a little time of comfort.

   Don’t waste your time thinking about the past or worrying about the future, and losing your present in both. Successful people manage their time well, while the unsuccessful lose it. Remember, “Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.”You should manage your time to be able to achieve your goals and dreams.

   A valuable life is a selfless one. People who didn’t live for themselves only, but used their time to help others; their lives turned to be lanterns that have illuminated the road to next generations. Helen keller taught us not to fall in despair, Thomas Edison taught us that there is no existence for the word “failure”; we can learn from Newton accuracy and quick wit and many others of those who lead a valuable life and we can learn from them. Thus, to lead a valuable life is not an easy matter. Great people led a life that turns to be a guide to many people.

Thus, my friend, you should learn that:

   You can make something of your life and turn it to be valuable one. Your principles, values and toiling will be the pillars that add value to your life and turn it to a guide for others. This way you will lead a meaningful and significant life.

General Bishop

Head of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center