One ordinary Friday morning, we received the devastating news at work that a colleague had passed away unexpectedly. As the news spread through the office, I felt increasingly heartbroken. Just the day before, we had been exchanging e-mails about work.

 

A few days later, I was on my way to the office when a colleague, who was heading to the memorial service, convinced me to attend. The service turned out to be a celebration of her colourful life – her playful sense of humour, her incredible talent and creativity, her deep love for her husband and sons, her insight into people, and the wonderful colleague, friend, wife and mother she was.

 

As I drove away, my heart was still heavy with sorrow over the immense loss, but I was also filled with admiration for the beautiful words spoken about her. So many people attended that extra chairs had to be brought in. I suddenly regretted not having had the chance to get to know her better.

 

The thing about death is that it forces you to reflect on your own life, on what truly matters. In the end, it’s not about awards, important titles or achievements. Those are not the things people talk about or celebrate when someone is no longer here. It’s the other qualities, the ones that make people feel loved and seen, that inspire such beautiful tributes.

 

How will people remember me one day? Yes, it may seem sombre to think about it this way, but I was reminded again of the profound impact we can have on others. And now I ask myself: How do people experience me? How do my colleagues perceive me at work? How do my family and loved ones experience me? What are the things that linger in people’s minds after I leave a room?

 

Prayer: Lord, help me to embrace life and live it to the fullest. Help me to live in a way that allows me to have a positive impact on others. Amen.