The Delicacy of Life

“This installment of Monday Unleaded is inspired by, and dedicated to the memory of Trayvon Benjamin Martin. Feel free to read on, or sign the petition at MoveOn.org today.

Whether riding the waves of success or struggling to keep balance, a common antidote among the living is that life is good. Although not false, the expression, for me, leaves much to be desired. For the delicacy of life, which is breathing and being, is more than just “good,” even in its most indigent state. A better assertion would be that life is fine.

Yes, life is fine, like the world’s most desirable foods! But unlike the songbird or black-headed gull, the delicacy of life transcends culture. Each of us, regardless of our background, has grown to appreciate its uniqueness, texture, and unusual flavor. To love life means to have an acquired taste—an impossibility for one who lacks exposure.

It could be argued that many are robbed of this experience; and practical to base this argument on race or class. But it could also be argued that life is delicate, and that the imbalance we find between law and nature are testaments to its inherent delicacy. For some life is short, not unlike gratitude or poor memory. The equation is more complex, however, for those of us blessed with length of days. Opportunities are missed, and obsession, on both sides of the table, tend to distort life’s true meaning.

The delicacy of life should be placed above all ambition and pursuit of goals. Family and friendships are our most valuable assets, not material things. All too often, we are consumed with the unseen—be it regret, desire, or next week’s paycheck. The delicacy of life involves the present: Spending time with your companion, children, or parents; yielding a breath for a deeper one, and making time to appreciate the brilliance of heaven blue!

Yes, life is fine, and not just good. Life is a gift, and not something which has to be earned. And the opposite of life is not death, but rather, no life. For between birth and death (two instantaneous events) is an extended period of time. We can spend this time spreading love and hope, or hate, heartlessness, and negativity. The decision of “life” or “no-life” is ours to make.

My hope, dear reader, is that you will make this week a great one in spite of your challenges and setbacks. And that in the face of tragedy you will smile, and remember to enjoy the delicacy of life.

This is your Monday Unleaded for the week of July 14, 2013. Have a productive week!

Ever Changing Times – Siedah Garrett