Reflections on Life’s Phases
One important lesson I have learned in my short time on earth is to never be quick to judge people. As humans, we often judge others based on our own experiences, beliefs, and struggles. But the truth is that judgment is usually one-sided. If we have never walked in another person’s shoes, we cannot truly understand how those shoes pinch. What looks easy or careless from the outside may be a heavy burden on the inside.
Life moves in stages, and every phase comes with its own lessons. What matters is how well we live each phase and what we learn from it. This morning, I had a deep conversation with a brother in my family. We talked about our childhood and compared our present situation with that of our parents when they were raising us. When I asked if our lives today are better in terms of comfort and provision, his answer was “Yes.” However, he quickly added something important. He said the present generation places more value on material things, while the older generation focuses more on well-being, family unity, and community life.
That conversation reminded us of our uncles and aunties when we were young. Back then, we often felt they gave us very little whenever they visited. At that time, we thought they could have done more. But now that we are uncles and aunties ourselves, the picture looks different. We try to help where we can, but we also realise that responsibilities are heavier than they appear from the outside. Interestingly, many children and young adults today seem to care only about themselves and what they want. They hardly notice the effort or sacrifice behind what they receive. Then again, maybe that was how we looked to our elders when we were younger.
Life has a way of teaching us patience and understanding. With time, our eyes open.
Another truth we discussed is that no one can do everything for everyone. We can only give what we can afford, emotionally, physically, and financially. If we were to leave this world today, life would still go on.
There is a common saying in my locality: when you are around, people call your name; when you are gone, they call another. No matter how important we think we are, life does not pause for anyone.
This is why we should help others without expecting anything in return. We should be kind within our limits. Overdoing things can be dangerous because when we fall, it may be hard to find those who will lift us. Another is saying that a rich man surrounded by many people can become poor, while a wise poor man survives with caution.
In the end, we must always strive to remain relevant, careful, and grounded. Falling into a pit is easy, but climbing out takes strength, time, and support. Life teaches best when we are humble enough to learn.
