Have you ever received news that left you wandering aimlessly, with your mind so consumed by thoughts that, despite your desire to be productive, you find yourself unable to accomplish anything? Today happens to be one of those days for me.

This year, the shortness and unpredictability of human life have become so intimately intertwined with my daily reality that they seem to almost touch.

Once again, this morning, I awoke to unexpected news. A beloved relative and a dear friend of mine has very little time left to live. It was only last month that I spent precious moments with him during my visit to Finland. We talked, laughed, reminisced about shared memories, and basked in the warmth that defined our friendship.

Amidst the quiet of the moment, I turn to the good book that frequently imparts wisdom, comfort, and truth to me when my life becomes too turbulent.

I read the words of the Psalmist: “As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more”.

The other day, my adorable two-year-old granddaughter Freyja entered a clothing store. Inside, the shopkeeper was in the process of dressing the mannequins, some of which were missing body parts. She halted in her tracks, fixed her gaze, extended her little finger, and with wide, curious eyes, inquired, “What happened?” “What happened?”

Today, I find myself akin to little Freyja, pointing towards the unknown and pondering over what transpired. Life often takes us through different seasons, with some sailing smoothly, while others leave us bewildered and pained, making us question what indeed has occurred. This year, my life has been marked by a series of challenging circumstances, unexpected life changes, and surprising news, leaving my mind in a whirlwind.

As I grapple with this morning’s news and reflect on those cherished moments I shared in Finland with my friend, a mix of emotions floods over me. The laughter and shared memories, once so vivid, now feel both precious and bittersweet. The news of his condition is a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and it leaves me with a heavy heart. It’s a reminder of how important it is to cherish the time we have with the people we hold dear, for life can change in an instant.

It’s in these moments that I keenly feel the unique set of challenges that can come with being a migrant. It is not easy to live so far away from family members and other important people.

Life feels increasingly brief as I grow older, a truth that becomes all the more evident with each day that unfolds. The moments we have are like precious gems, to be cherished and used wisely. It’s as if the ticking of the clock has become a gentle nudge, urging me to prioritise what truly matters.

With a more composed mind, I move forward with my day, ready to face its challenges and embrace its opportunities. This moment of reflection has granted me the clarity and resilience to navigate whatever lies ahead with purpose and determination.