In February 2026 I had a near death, near drowning experience when I passed out while scuba diving 70 feet under water in the Pacific Ocean. As I reflect on the experience, I realize my life on this earth could have already ended but this experience left me with great peace. I give all glory to God for this extra time and continue to wonder what “unfinished business” there is for me here.

There are three ideas that keep coming back to me and I believe I should be spreading this message to others!

First, life is a gift. Every day I wake up is another day God has given me and I should not take anything for granted. It is easy to focus on what I don’t have, what isn’t going right, or what I want to accomplish and not appreciate the things right in front of me.

Second, I have a deeper understanding of the fact that the best is yet to come. Whether today is my happiest day or hardest day, and no matter how many days I have left on earth, the best is yet to come when my hope is in Him.

Lastly, I find myself singing a song by Shane & Shane called You've Already Won. Some of the lyrics include:

I'm fighting a battle

You've already won

No matter what comes my way

I will overcome

Don't know what You're doing

But I know what You've done

I'm fighting a battle

You've already won.

I know how the story ends

We will be with You again

You're my Savior, my defense

No more fear in life or death.

My experience changed the way I look at each day and loving my Lord, Jesus Christ. I want to use this “bonus” time to appreciate all of the things I have been given and trust whatever He gives me next remembering the best is yet to come!