Life is sweet.

“Oh, how sweet the light of day,
And how wonderful to live in the sunshine!
Even if you live a long time, don't take a single day for granted.
Take delight in each light-filled hour,
Remembering that there will also be many dark days
And that most of what comes your way is smoke.

You who are young, make the most of your youth.
Relish your youthful vigor.
Follow the impulses of your heart.
If something looks good to you, pursue it.
But know also that not just anything goes;
You have to answer to God for every last bit of it.

Live footloose and fancy-free—
You won't be young forever.
Youth lasts about as long as smoke.”

Ecclesiastes 11:7-10

I love the Message translation of this passage in Ecclesiastes. The author who is unknown, but thought to be Solomon, writes about the meaning of life and perspective. He advises young people to cherish each day and warns that this life isn’t easy - there will be dark days. Sadly, we all know the truth in these words. There will be days of sadness, grief, and heartache. But, as I have experienced darkness in my life, I have experienced greater light. Light prevails. It penetrates through darkness and brings hope, peace, and love. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8.12). He did not promise an easy life, but promises light in the dark days.

My blog title was inspired by truth of these things. In my world, light is life. Christ is the Light of the world and He is Life. Light is sweet. Life is sweet. As Italians says, “La Dolce Vita!” I am looking forward to “living footloose and fancy-free” in Italy…how wonderful to live in the Italian sunshine!