“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13

This may be a Biblical statement, but the same sentiment can be found throughout recorded history, mythology, and even our modern story-telling.

300 Spartans laid down their lives to save Western civilization.  Superheroes lay down their lives to save Metropolises.  Jedis lay down their lives to save galaxies.  Real life 1st responders and military personal lay down their lives every day.  These are the stories throughout time that resonate with us, and bring a swell of pride to our hearts.

Does that mean only the heroic can live lives of self-transcendence?  No.

We can, we should, aim for this lofty goal every day if we want to live a life of meaning.

But how?

The answer is simple enough, but the action may be quite difficult: by focusing on the needs of others, without expecting anything in return.

We can “lay down our lives”, without giving up our lives – without making the ultimate sacrifice.  However, the greater we give to our fellow man, our families, our children, our communities; the greater the gift of meaning in our own lives.