It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since I retired from medicine. Where did the time go? I share the sentiment with friends who nod in agreement and shrug, as if to say, “Who knows? But I feel the same way.”
Life is too short to let it race by without paying attention. It’s also too short to spend it doing things that aren’t fulfilling. So now that the newness of retirement and of getting married again after all these years of widowhood is behind me, I’m doing some self-searching.
Here’s how the questions look for me; maybe the list will give you some ideas of your own.
Is most of my time spent doing something meaningful and enjoyable? Does it reflect my beliefs about God? Family? Love?
Am I stopping regularly to notice and relish the little moments of joy and wonder? The vast night sky, the buzzing of a hummingbird, or the sweetness of a perfect summer watermelon?
Am I saying “yes” to things I don’t really want to do, to be a people-pleaser, or because my ego talks me into it? Or have I said “yes” to so many wonderful things that I jump from one to the next in a constant blur of busyness?
Am I saying “no” to things I want to do because I’m afraid of what could go wrong? Or worried about what others might say?
Am I balancing care for others with care for myself – getting enough sleep, enjoying healthy food, setting aside time for quiet prayer, exercising regularly?
Like me, spend some time reflecting and writing down your thoughts. Because now comes the harder part. If my honest answers point to a problem, it’s time to do things differently.
Can I spend less time scrolling the internet and reading social media?
Can I delegate things that don’t fulfill me and focus more on those that do?
Can I spend less time on my projects and more time on my people?
Can I honestly assess my time and accept that I cannot do everything – even if everything I want to do is good?
I will remember to be flexible, since God’s plans might be different from mine, but even a small change can empower me to make more gradually. This mindful process helps me take time to look at my life, instead of letting it fritter away without paying attention.
After all, time is not a renewable resource.
Dear God, thank you for the blessing of time you have given.
Please help me use mine wisely and joyfully.
Amen