Before looking at the question “Why are we here?” in relation to everyday situations I would like to refer to something I heard recently from Neale Donald Walsch on the bigger question of why we, as spiritual beings, are here experiencing something very different.

How can we really know light if we have never experienced darkness? How can we have a deep understanding of love if we have never been aware of its opposite? Neale suggests that it is in the very relativity of the physical world with its contrasts and judgments that we come to a greater understanding of the spiritual qualities that we have and are.

Suppose that wherever we are, whomever we are with, we are here to remind everyone about who they really are, to heal this space, to bring awareness. As Jesus said in a much greater context: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10: 10)

In simple practical terms we can make a point of expressing our gratitude and appreciation, of giving genuine praise and encouragement whenever we have opportunity.

Recently as I was praising ‘Mary’ for the way she lights up the space she occupies, I was delighted that inadvertently I gave her the opportunity to give a material gift to add to the love and light and hugs that she dispenses to those who come near.