Paradise at Hand

by George Mantalvanos '25

Imagine a world without suffering, one of infinite tranquility.

A world where no child goes famished, and every parent can indefinitely provide.

A world where war is forgotten and never a solution.

A world that cares for and lifts up one another.

A world that one does not worry about the past or future, but lives in the moment.

A world where differences do not banish us from one another but instead unite us.

A world where peace exists from all corners of the blue.

A world where the sick are cured.

A world where natural disasters do not destroy lives.

A world where everyone can have faith in God and not be persecuted.

One prays to the Almighty that they may be brought into a world of such.

As one prays, they forget the world they desire is already present. One must open their eyes to the world and see through the stains and impurities. Our world, although plagued with imperfections, can be a Garden of Eden, a paradise for all.

As our heads are cursed with the idea of “success” through earthly riches, we forget about our spiritual riches.

As we dwell on the past or stress for the future, our minds wear down, our souls dim.

Instead of wishing for a perfect world, believe our current world is Paradise, not Hades.

Strive to be your best self, not society’s version of a best self.

Strive for faith, even in times of hardship. Find pleasure in labor, even when your hands weep. Through a labor of love and abundance of faith. Paradise is indeed at hand.