Heaven in a Wild Flower

We all have different interpretation of Heaven. To most people, Heaven is a desired place where we will go to when we die. The image of heaven has long been imprinted in us since young via cartoons. It is place where angels sing and dance. A place where we ride on colorful clouds. A place where pain doesn't exist. A place where we will always be happy. As we grow up, we learnt of the "conditions" that we need to fulfill to get to that magical place call Heaven. You got to believe in God. You got to be good - be filial to your parents, faithful to your family, loyal to your country... Yet we are undeterred. We like to know that there is life after death. We like to know that there is something good waiting for us. What if Heaven is merely a concept? Who can really prove that there is such a place call Heaven. Who can really prove there is life after death? Did anyone who died came back to tell us what it is like after death? I doubt so.

In my opinion, the concept of Heaven is not a bad thing. It brings hope to people. It brings security and comfort. But here's the thing. Why do we have to wait till we die before we enjoy the "goods" that Heaven promises? Why do we need conditions to determine whether the person goes to Heaven or Hell? Why do we need to believe in ONE person to get to Heaven?

Here's what I think. Heaven is created by us. It's a choice. We can choose to be happy or not. We can even choose to suffer or not. It's a personal choice. Instead of fast-forwarding life to enjoy "Heaven", why not create it in the present. Why not enjoy the company of your friends. Why not enjoy the unconditional love your parents have for you. Why not enjoy the capability to love others. Simply put, enjoy what you have right now and be present to what life has to offer.

As we all know, living is not difficult - all you got to do is breathe. But being alive is a choice.

William Blake's poem - Augeries of Innocence speaks so much to what life is all about.

To see a world in a grain of sand
And heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand
And eternity in an hour.