We are blessed with life — with strength, love, intelligence, and compassion. The most precious blessing, though, is our awareness of being alive. It is this gift of consciousness which makes humanity the crown of creation.
I know I am alive but for a limited time. So I am obligated to use my life to some purpose, to achieve something truly meaningful, to be of service to God by making my limited time on earth of lasting value. I use my gifts to make this world — to the extent that I am able — more blessed, nurturing, peaceful and harmless. This is how I express my gratitude.
Nick Hilton - Reflections 