"Life is fragile. Love well"

I'm a big fan of Dr. Gary Chapman's concept of the 5 love languages. The concept, as described on his website, is that "different people with different personalities give and receive love in different ways. By learning to recognize these preferences in yourself and in your loved ones, you can learn to identify the root of your conflicts, connect more profoundly, and truly begin to grow closer." I've done the quiz myself (I'm a 'Words of Affirmation' gal), I've read the 5 Love Languages book, and I also subscribe to Dr. Gary Chapman's newsletter (subscribe here). The newsletter obviously promotes the love languages, but also just offers really nice life advice. I loved the newsletter I received today so much that I just had to share it in my blog.

Knowing that my mom died so young, compared to the average life expectancy for women, makes me really sad. But, the thing that I'm grateful for and proud of, is the fact that my mom certainly lived well. She lived well, she loved well, and she is remembered fondly. This message spoke to me deeply.  Life is fragile - be kind and love well!

Subject: Life is fragile. Love well!

Hey Amanda,

“It’s not how long you live, but how well you live.”

You’ve heard it. I’ve heard it. But it’s really true. Ultimately, age has little to do with success. It is not how many years we have to live, but how we use the years we have.

My sister died at age 58. I have a close friend who died at 52. A few years ago, a 24-year-old graduate student in our church died. As I listened to the eulogies, I realized he had accomplished far more in 24 years than many people accomplish in 80.

The key is to invest your life one day at a time.

Do something kind for someone every day. Look out for others. Love well.

In doing these things, you will find a life filled with joy and fulfillment irrespective of years.

Warmly,

Dr. Gary Chapman     P.S.  If my blog posts resonate with you, or if you don't want to miss a post, feel free to subscribe! You may subscribe from the home page of my blog.