"He was not a perfect person, but he got the big things right." My great uncle's funeral was yesterday and his son said that about him. No one is perfect, people make mistakes, every day, usually several times a day. But what a prodigious thing to have said about you; you got the big things right.
His was a generation of farmers, of generosity, of making time for family. My grandpa was like that too. It may be a bit morbid but when I go to funerals I wonder what people will say at mine. At my cousin's funeral it was clear to everyone, he was a hero.
Bryan was a favorite. He would come into family gatherings and we all adored him. He was a police officer in Converse County out in Wyoming. He sacrificed his life so another could live. He is beloved and he is missed greatly. Police officers deserve high honor and respect and our country needs to recognize them as people upholding the law.
Reflection should not be a bad thing. Hopefully you take time to examine your life, your actions and your heart. Living a life worthy of honor. Andy Stanley said that the greatest question you can ask yourself is: what is the wise thing to do? Concerning my past, my current circumstances, and my future hopes and dreams.
In the end, it's not going to be about how pretty you are. It won't matter how much money you made. It won't be about how you vote in the next election.(but really, know who you're voting for people!) What's going to count is your relationships. First with God. Then with your family and friends. Get the big things right.