DOGE

The Department of Geriatric Efficiency

BRUCE  LICHT

We have all heard the expression, “Time flies.” But remember when a year seemed like an eternity? Now, they seem to pass like pages flipping in a book, only to find that we are in, or rapidlyapproaching, the final chapters.

For many, that’s when serious reflection begins happening. You start asking: “What’s the purpose of life?” “Have I fulfilled my mission?” “Is this all there is?” If this sounds familiar, I recommend creating a new, “Personal Accountability Department” for yourself. You can call it “DOGE: the Department of Geriatric Efficiency.”  (1, 2)

One thing is for sure. The more possessions you acquire, the more worries you have. Before you owned a car, you didn't think about oil changes, tune-ups, dead batteries, or taking the driving exam. (1)

Likewise, the more material belongings we have, the less free time we often devote to our spiritual lives. So invest wisely. The only reason we’re in this world is so we can acquire “food” for the “World to Come.” This “food” is our good deeds. After someone dies, they can’t call a loved one, give charity, visit the sick, mentor others, or choose kindness. This world is the only place we can contribute to and build up our “Spiritual IRA.” (1)

Before it’s too late, start thinking: Am I learning, praying, and doing good deeds the way God wants me to? Don’t excuse poor behavior by saying “Everyone else acts this way, so I can too.” How do you think that logic will serve you in the long run? (1)

Sooner or later, there are consequences for our actions. Imagine someone commits a crime deserving the death penalty, yet the judge shows mercy and only issues a slap on the wrist. The next time you face hardship or affliction, try reframing it as receiving an act of divine mercy. Accept whatever comes your way as a sign that God loves you. Because it could have been much worse.

Everything God does is ultimately for good! (3) Every “stumble” we take is for the purposes of a future ascent. Every moment, God is sending us messages. There are lessons embedded in everything we see. (4) The reason Noah was commanded to spend 120 years building this massive floating vessel was so the people of that generation would ask, “What are you doing? What are you making?” (5) Everything we experience is actually like a mirror reflecting back what God wants us to focus and work on.

If people don’t know what they are living for, they are constantly at war with themselves. Every breath we take is an opportunity to thank God for how He works all things to good in our life.

So perform a “DOGE” assessment of your life to create efficiency and meaning beyond short term goals or fleeting desires. The existence of a divine Creator provides the necessary framework for true accountability. This perspective affirms that life, with all its complexity, is intentionally guided by a benevolent Creator deeply invested in our spiritual growth and ultimate destiny.