The empty table, temperature, and timing were perfectly aligned for a long afternoon’s conversation with friends. Memories and visions mix the past and the future. I was overwhelmed with feelings of thankfulness for the gifts of time and a willingness to be present. I do not recall the constant interruption of mobile devices. I do remember my awareness of openness, candour, and dialogue. With my memories, I was also aware of a longing within me for recreation. In this spot, at this time, everyone was so close and yet with busy schedules, so far. Today would be my time for reflection and hope.
The reflections captured in the photograph and reflection in the moment, echo as I start my day. Whispers, then and now, linger as guide rails for my day.
Life’s greatest moments involve others. When I reflect on highlight reels from my journey, in each is one or more faces. Faces of those who are no longer here. Faces of wisdom and wit. Faces who shared and committed without reservation. In appreciating each one of them, I find myself aware of the gifts to me in the present. It is a calling to honour and respect their gifts. In being together, I know great conversations, memories, and community will follow.
Creating space and time are, in themselves, acts of caring and kindness, especially for oneself. This is, for me, what I hear with the old reminder; “Make sure that you don’t get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-by-day obligations that you lose track of the time and doze off, oblivious to God.” (Romans 13.11). Divinity begins in the relationships of our lives and grows from there.
How one uses time is like a mirror of one’s heart and soul. A friend told me that I always have time for what is important. I agree it is true, I also know that time is fleeting. Today, I can exercise kindness and care in each moment. With freedom and without conditions, my time and steps can be gifts shared with others.
