After The Work

When we are younger it is easy to fall into the “when we get to this point, things will be good.” We look ahead at what we hope for, our goals, kids, jobs, relationships, and homes. We begin working diligently at creating a future where we can be proud, saying “look what we have done”. The seductive thought is to put off today for tomorrow, often at the cost of relationships and family life.

Upon getting older, a grim reality can take hold: Those were the times. Children growing up, relationships gaining depth and memory, cherished memories and holidays are the real currency of our serenity. Whether we have succeeded in our attempts at getting established, wealth, or homes what good are they when we are all alone?

A pain can grip your insides when you look back and wonder if you squandered opportunities to be there for your partner, your children, or friends. Surely you were not all bad, but did you embrace the day? What if you were to die ten years prior, then all your planning was for naught for today. Did you tell your children you loved them? Did you stay up with your partner and hold their hand when they were down? Or did you work at the office, or worse, escape to worse compulsions?

We find in 2nd Corinthians 6:2: For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation. Waiting for “the moment” or everything in your life to fall into place misses the reality that the moment is Divine. Those moments of stress, worrying about tomorrow can distract us from milestones in the lives of others.

Today is the day. Even if you have squandered your past, act upon it today. Reconnect with others, have time for your friends and family. Spend time in prayer and meditation. Let go of the regret or there will only be more regret in the future. If you are still young and reading these words, do not waste time on selfish things because while others knock on your door today, they will eventually stop knocking when you are busy focused upon the future or yourself.