Life in balance
It is crucial to live prime time rather than merely watching TV during prime time. On the journey to success, it’s vital to cultivate friendships, not just accumulate wealth in bank accounts and mutual funds. Life, after all, is a tapestry woven from cherished memories, not from material possessions.
Consider the ancient Egyptian pharaohs, buried with all their treasures and mummified in the hope of enjoying their riches in the afterlife. Yet, we are mere custodians of our possessions. The distinction between standard of living and quality of life is profound: while the former hinges on income, the latter thrives in the countless moments between achievements.
True wealth transcends mere financial prosperity. To the ailing, wealth manifests as health; to the lonely, as companionship and connection; to the estranged, as love and forgiveness.
In the spirit of Brother Jeremiah’s timeless poem “I’d Pick More Daisies,” if granted a second chance:
I would laugh at misfortunes, count blessings over blemishes, and relish moments with children and grandchildren rather than watching life pass as a spectator. More time appreciating what is present, less time longing for what isn’t.
If given the chance to live anew, I’d embrace spontaneity, relishing rainy walks without shelter and tuning out weather forecasts. More time marveling at trees, less time with magazines made from trees. Fully immersed in the present, less tethered to memories or future worries. Smiling more, frowning less.
Above all, I’d live actively, eschewing hesitation for spontaneity—hiking, playing, singing, kayaking, watching eclipses—welcoming each opportunity with a resounding “Yes, we can!”
While life can’t rewind, every day offers a chance to live anew. We may not reclaim lost moments, yet we possess the gift of time ahead.
Choosing one neglected passion each month and treating it as a non-negotiable commitment can reshape our priorities. Like business or financial goals, scheduling these activities ensures their fulfillment. Embrace the mantra: “Today, live the life you desire—one of balance, where moments cherished outweigh possessions amassed.”
