It's amazing how much you don't know about a person, even someone you've known your entire life—or for many years.
As I sat in church and listened to the testimonies of friends and distant family members sharing stories about my Uncle, I was amazed. The things he accomplished, the businesses he started, the people he helped, and the lives he impacted were truly inspiring. Hearing about the era he grew up in, being drafted into military service, fighting to further his education, and faithfully leading and providing for his family gave me a deeper appreciation for his journey.
Scripture tells us to "give honor to whom honor is due" (Romans 13:7), and I realized there was so much about his life that deserved honor and recognition.
I wish I had taken more time to sit and listen to his stories directly from him. But like many of us, I allowed the daily grind of trying to survive and thrive in today's economy to consume my time—working harder, working longer, and focusing on providing. Yet God's Word reminds us that life is more than our labor. "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36).
A friend once asked me, "What do you do for your Sabbath rest?" I've been pondering that question for weeks and still don't have a clear answer. God established Sabbath not because He needed rest, but because we do (Exodus 20:8-10). Rest creates space for reflection, relationships, gratitude, and connection.
I think it's time for me to be more intentional about learning the stories of the people in my circle. Considering how small the group is that I consider true friends, that shouldn't be too difficult. 😂
Sometimes, you have to be the one who reaches out. Sometimes, you have to be the one who swallows your pride and makes the call—maybe even more than once. Life gets busy. People carry burdens we know nothing about. As Galatians 6:2 reminds us, we are called to "bear one another's burdens."
Life may be "lifing," but it's also worth living. Love the people God has placed around you while you still have the opportunity. Listen to their stories. Ask questions. Make the call. One day, you'll be grateful you did. 💯
Reflecting on the celebration of life for someone like Gilbert M. Smalls reminds us how deeply impactful an individual’s legacy can be on family and community. Personal stories shared by friends and relatives during such events reveal the unseen acts of kindness, resilience, and faith that define a person more than any public achievement. From military service to entrepreneurship, every chapter of his life paints a vivid picture of dedication and sacrifice. In my own experience, these moments have taught me the value of intentionally listening and engaging with those around us. Too often, we get caught up in daily responsibilities, neglecting to pause and appreciate the struggles and triumphs of our loved ones. Sabbath rest, as instituted in scripture, is not merely a day off but a sacred opportunity to cultivate gratitude, reflection, and renewal. It creates the space needed to nurture relationships, themselves a source of profound healing and joy. I’ve found that reaching out—even when it feels uncomfortable or inconvenient—can open doors to deeper understanding and shared support. As life gets busier and burdens heavier, bearing one another’s burdens strengthens the bonds that sustain us. This intentionality reinforces the truth that life is much richer when lived with heartfelt connection and spiritual mindfulness. Honoring those who came before us and embracing the present moment’s gifts helps us truly live, not just exist. It’s a reminder that every phone call made, every story heard, and every act of love contributes to a legacy worth cherishing. These reflections encourage us all to be more mindful of resting, relating, and rejoicing in the lives entwined with ours.
