I've been writing about my life experiences for a few years now.  I love sharing stories and knowing that somehow, somewhere, every story might touch someone in a special way.  Since I decided to dedicate a section of my blog to my life as a "Church Lady", I thought I'd share something I wrote last year that made me reflect on the miracle of life.

"Perhaps it's the fact that I work at a church office and I witness life and death through the sacraments of Baptism and Funeral on a regular basis.  Or maybe, it's just me and my old soul pondering style, but I find myself thinking about the great miracle of life and our brief journey through this world, often.

Just the other day, as a family was walking in to register their baby to be baptized - one of the most joyous times for a family with a young child - everyone was smiling from ear to ear, bursting with joy for that life that is just beginning, and at exactly the same time through the office window, I witnessed a funeral procession for an elderly lady.  Family members embracing each other, hugging and holding hands on their way to bid farewell to their loved one, probably reminiscing about all the good times they had together and celebrating her accomplishments.  It was in that moment, those few seconds of these two families intercepting for a brief moment, that I saw the dash.  The dash between the moment we are born and the moment we leave our earthly journey.  What a powerful experience that was.

How are we choosing to live our "dash"?  How are we treating our family members, friends and peers?  Are we respectful of others?  Are we having fun and making the best of our free time? Do we practice what we preach? Are we helping those in need? 

I was born with an old, hippie soul, and I kind of love it.  I have embraced it from day one, but that soul also puts a lot of thoughts and feelings in my heart.

Appreciate every second.  Love one another.  Life is a miracle."