Early this fall, I attended my 20th high school reunion. Even with the embarrassment of forgetting people’s names, I really had a good time. It was enjoyable visiting and catching up on lost years.
One of the highlights of the weekend was an epiphany I received while sitting in church. The familiar sights and sounds of my old school brought back wave upon wave of memories. The flood of bygones was almost overwhelming. One in particular stands out.
In high school I struggled with the desire to commit suicide. I was trying to deal with an identity crisis. It would be easier, I thought, if I took my life and no one would miss me.
I planned the event, carefully choosing an out-of-the-way place in the nearby forest. I was going to hike up to the old hollow stump I found and overdose. Thankfully I never took the final step.
During the reunion, the worship team lead us in singing the song, “Because He Lives.” The chorus says life is worth living because He lives. Suddenly it hit me in a way I had never thought of before. Waves of emotion and thankfulness washed over me. I am still here to enjoy this moment.
If I had ended things all those years ago, I would have missed out on the rich life God has given me. I have an incredible family, I’ve traveled the world and experienced things many only dream of.
It was a humbling moment. God has preserved my life for a reason. My life is worth living.
