Meaning of Life

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For the "What Life Means To Me Contest". This is from a 'Mormon' perspective, because Latter Day Saints are the only Christians that have as doctrine that the marital relationship can extend beyond death if certain covenants are made. Other faithful Christians might personally believe that too, but it is not in their denominations' doctrine

Life is less about having or being, And more about becoming. Likewise, it is less about knowing And more about learning… At least until you’re dead. The difference between who you are today And who you were yesterday Are the friends you’ve made And the books you’ve read… This is the true way to ‘get ahead’. If there exists a post-mortal afterlife, I hope you’ll share it with a husband or wife. So if you hope you’ll be with him or her, Start now and treat that person better— Why wait until you’re dead?!

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Old Buck

Date: 5/27/2015 2:27:00 PM

Mark: Well done. A great truth in nearly every line. I believe in heaven there will be no marriage so I've got my heart set on seeing my little Sheltie dog Snickers. :o) Someone earlier has suggested they liked the last two lines. They bring into sharp focus a "novel idea" we should all consider. Thanks for sharing. oldbuck

Mark J. Halliday
Date: 7/1/2016 1:44:00 AM

A belated thanks for the positive comments. I only notice they've come in about half of the time. I remember some very old church sermons about spending more effort on becoming the right spouse rather than just finding the right one. My denomination teaches that marriage can extend into the afterlife if certain conditions are met, but both persons need to work together towards that goal.

Debra Irsik

Date: 5/27/2015 9:15:00 AM

Hi Mark, I am new here and just wanted to say that I enjoyed your poem. I sometimes get stuck on particular rhyme schemes and I like that you seem to be comfortable doing many different types. I think that we will always be linked to our soulmates and Love the last two lines!

Mark J. Halliday
Date: 7/1/2016 1:40:00 AM

A belated thanks for the positive comments. I like participating in the contests because they often push me to use forms I'm not familiar or comfortable with--as long as the subject is interesting.

Emile Pinet

Date: 2/9/2015 7:05:00 PM

Your words took stage and treated the reader to a glimpse of your heart and a peek at your soul. Emile.

Mark J. Halliday
Date: 3/15/2015 9:24:00 PM

Belated thanks for commenting. Thoughtful comment too.