Living Life to the Fullest

Once upon a time, in a faraway land, there lived a little girl called Annah. When she was born, her parents were very happy. They waited for her for seven long years. They thought she would never come.

In the tradition of the Baptist religion, Annah was offered to the Lord, being a first born child. During the offering, it was her mother who said the prayer. It was a short prayer of worship and gratitude. All that Annah's mother asked for, was that the Lord help Annah to live a meaningful life.

Annah grew up to be very intelligent and obedient. She was very much loved by members of her family, neighbors, and friends.

In college, she took up mass communications. She had a gift for writing, as well as speaking and persuading people. Even before graduation, various print media and broadcast networks were already offering jobs for Annah. The university guidance office had submitted the names of students graduating with honors to various companies for job placements. Among several organizations that wrote to Annah, there was one that caught her attention. It was a mission center for spreading the gospel. It was inviting her to volunteer for one of the missions to be scheduled soon in one of the countries of Latin America. Something inside her was moved. She felt she wanted to go.

"Just for a year," Annah pleaded with her parents who were reluctant to let her go. "I'll work in one of the television networks upon my return," Annah promised.

The year had quickly passed and Annah came back very radiant despite the pressures of being away from the comforts of home. She said she felt fulfilled.

Although she often wrote home, her mother was still eager to listen to her stories. There were many. But there was one which was their favorite. Annah told about Gerry, a proud and intelligent young man and his futile quest for peace and enlightenment. The young man was an experimental film director. He was experiencing an unexplained angst and upon reaching a dead end-- he wanted to end his life--, Annah encouraged him to be humble and seek God by reading the Holy Scriptures.

The young man was really amazed with his spiritual discovery. Upon surrender of his will and commitment to obey God, it was as if a veil had been lifted from Gerry's eyes. He could already read the Bible and understand it whereas before he could not understand its message.

"And where is Gerry now?," asked Annah's mother.

"Oh, Mom, tomorrow, he will be coming here for dinner. I want you and Dad to meet him."

Annah's mother smiled. She thought a beautiful love story is about to unfold before her very eyes.