MANTA RAYS 

They are huge, 14 feet across

When they arrive at the scene, they 

Instantly become the undisputed big boss.

They get close enough for you to stroke

They’re quite sociable and scary

But don’t care much

About human

Folk

______________________________

What does it mean to be alive?

          This is the fundamental unanswered question of most, if not all, religions. Fortunately, it is not our job to find the answer. As painful as it may be for some, it is beyond human capability. We can define the word scientifically without issue for most of us, but when it comes to the spiritual realm, it becomes impossible. We can only make assumptions, which we choose to accept as facts, and that is okay because all facts are based on assumptions. 

          There are a few assumptions we make about life on Earth. One is that it must reproduce something at least like itself. We used to believe that if it was alive, it needed oxygen, but we found some life forms that don’t. That opens a whole new way of thinking about the Universe.

          When I was in college in the 1950s, one of my professors commented, “The only bad thing about becoming a scientist is you will be included in a small group that realizes that they know nothing.” It is sometimes hard to live in a society that thinks it knows everything. My dad told me that life would get harder, so I just handle it. I did, and it was fun. I enjoyed every minute of my 92-year life, even though I am not sure of what it is.

          My mother told me my life was only worth what it was worth to other people, and that to help them, I had to keep myself healthy, which had to be my prime job. I thank her for sharing that with me. I have been a caregiver for 28 years of my life. 

           I do not know what the ultimate meaning of life is, but her interpretation has worked for me. When the world around you seems to be going crazy, remember you are a tree, and your roots are deep and strong. The earth does not give way; you will survive the storm and enjoy the good weather ahead if you handle it.