by David Skolnik

Created on: May 15, 2010   Last Updated: May 17, 2010

Death and taxes, death and taxes, death and taxes. Those two words have been driven home thousands of times as absolute certainties. One has an annual deadline of April 15, the other rests in the hands of God.

Is that all there is? Come on, look around you. The world is beautiful. Surely, there are some sinister aspects to global issues but, for the most part, I thank the Lord for each day. Remember that song, "Everything is beautiful, in its own way?"

I could never figure out why some people want to check out of this existence before their time is up. The older I get, I realize that God still has me around for a purpose. I see it now clearer than ever. He has given me a gift to tell stories through the written word and I love sharing them with the world and getting feedback, good or bad.

Every time I go out I seem to be beaming with joy and confidence and it becomes infectious. I know God has my back and I realize it's my responsibility to share the gifts He's given me with others.

Life shouldn't be about just death and taxes. The focus of life shouldn't be on you, rather on others. Sometimes I find that taking a walk in the park is fulfilling enough. I bring a good book, observe the flora and fauna, jot down some thoughts and ideas for a story. Sometimes I'll feed the birds, pet a dog or chat with an elderly person who appears to need a friend.

There are times I'll go to the hospital for my physical therapy sessions and I'll take a break to volunteer in the children's ward to bring smiles to their faces. That is just awesome.

No, I refuse to sit in a chair all day and brood about my predicament. There is so much one can do if you think outside the box and take the focus off of yourself.

Have you ever gone up to a veteran of the Armed Forces and thanked him/her for service to the country and for allowing you to sleep peacefully at night? That is an incredible high.

Yes, there are places to go, things to do and people to see. Life is good, God is great. Seize the moment! All the good things you do will some day, somehow come back to bless you.

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