Divine Definitions: (1) Animation of pattern and energy by Divine Spirit upon matter; (2) That vital spark which allows an organism to absorb energy, associate with mind, grow, adapt, and reproduce; (3) The animator and revivifier; (4) The essential element of continued existence; soul; (5) The gift of consciousness
Comment: The loss of (physical) life has always been, and continues to be, the most fearsome and mysterious of facts. The first fact – the existence of a loving God – frees us from this greatest of worries. Our restored (heavenly) life is assured if we assimilate the indestructible substances of the universe: values.
Quote: Jesus calls men, not to a new religion, but to life. — Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) German Lutheran theologian
ANIMATED
Human Definitions: (1) endowed with the qualities of life; alive; (2) full of movement and activity; lively; (3) full of spirit; vigorous
Quote: How great is the mystery of the first cells which were one day animated by the breath of our souls! How impossible to decipher the welding of successive influences in which we are forever incorporated! In each one of us, through matter, the whole history of the world is in part reflected. — Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1881-1955) French Jesuit priest
LIVELY
Human Definitions: (1) vigorous; active; (2) cheerful; airy; (3) spirited; exciting; stimulating; (4) strong; intense; stirring; (5) brilliant; fresh; (6) quick to rebound, to spring back; resilient
Synonyms: Lively suggests briskness, alertness, or energy; animated applies to what is spirited, alive, and sparkling; gay stresses complete freedom from care and overflowing spirits; sprightly suggests lightness and spirited vigor of manner or wit; vivacious suggests an activeness of gesture and wit, often playful or alluring.
Quote: Life is a lively process of becoming. — Douglas MacArthur (1880–1964) American General