We often hear familiar sayings such as “time is of the essence,” “time waits for no man,” or “time flies.” But how often do we pause to truly reflect on what timemeans? One of the greatest gifts we can ever offer another person is our time—our presence, our attention, our willingness to share a moment that will never return.
Time itself never speeds up or slows down; it is constant. What has changed is the pace of our lives.In the rush of modern living, we often overlook those who long for a few minutes of our company—a loved one waiting for a call, a friend hoping to meet, or a parent wishing for a visit. Too often, we cancel plans or prioritize things that add little meaning or joy to our lives. Every second we live is a piece of our lifetime, and once it passes, it cannot be reclaimed. Not everyone has the privilege of more time, so we must use ours wisely—spending it on what truly matters and who truly matters.
Many of us dwell on the past, regretting the time we believe we’ve wasted. Yet, the past cannot be changed—it can only teach us. Instead of mourning lost time, we can learn from it and refocus on creating a more fulfilling future. Living without regret means being fully present in the now, cherishing what we love, and valuing every shared moment.
When we give our time to people who bring meaning and joy into our lives, we create memories that last far beyond the moment itself. It’s sobering to realize how easily we make time for someone when they fall ill or when we attend their funeral, yet often fail to make that time while they are alive. This reality should remind us that nowis when change must happen. Life is happening all around us, and every moment it unfolds costs us time—precious, irreplaceable time.
Creating balance allows us to make space for what truly nourishes our spirit. Time does not wait, yet it is always right on time. It is never too early or too late to reach out, reconnect, or simply be present. Do not let your life be filled with “I wish I had” or “I was going to.” If you truly value life, then treasure every second of it—make memories, embrace joy, and live with intention.
As Viktor E. Frankl reminds us,
“Human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” In the same way, we have the freedom to choose how we spend our time—wisely, purposefully, and meaningfully.
