flourishing life

This is what we need to aim for in the lives of those around us: a flourishing life, one in which their God-given talents and gifts are fully manifested, leading to a sense of fulfillment that encompasses both the physical and the inner, spiritual dimensions.

It is important to note that human flourishing is not typically attained in solitude. While there are notable exceptions—individuals who have reached spiritual maturity while living alone—the general pattern is different. When we look to our highest model of life, the Holy Trinity, we see that the three Persons exist in perfect and continual fellowship. From this, we can understand that a human being, made in the image of God, is generally called to reach his fullest potential in relationship with and for the others—especially those closest to him.

Moreover, a lonely person might have the impression that he is living a flourishing life. With a good job, a satisfactory salary, and a harmonious work environment free of misunderstandings, he may easily believe that life is going well — and that it will always remain so. However, an external observer might discern that the direction of his life is not entirely right. This is why human flourishing requires not only inner conviction, but also the perspective of others who can see the broader direction of one’s life.

At the end of the day, human flourishing is like looking at a flower when it fully blooms, and you are astonished by the beauty it has, but also by the energy it radiates toward the viewer. It is the same with the human person who flourishes — he radiates happiness and beauty. It seems that both the flower and the viewer are aware of this beauty.