Embracing the In-Between Moments
Have you ever found yourself waiting for something to happen? Time is such a fascinating part of our lives. In some ways, it moves at lightning speed-one moment, our children are newborns, and the next, they are teenagers, then adults, all in what feels like the blink of an eye. I remember watching my wife perform Hamlet’s soliloquy on stage, asking her to be my girlfriend, then my wife-and now, we are about to celebrate 32 years of marriage.
Yet, when we’re waiting for something-a flower to bloom, a package to arrive, or a long-anticipated vacation-time seems to slow to a crawl. We wonder if the flower is even alive, if the post office lost our address, or if that vacation was just a figment of our imagination. Then, before we know it, that moment arrives and is gone almost as quickly as it came. Time seems to have a mood of its own, and I believe it’s far better to focus on our daily priorities rather than the ticking clock.
Finding Purpose in the Waiting
Lately, I’ve been working on what to focus on in the waiting. When we choose to embrace the opportunities right in front of us, those slow, in-between moments become gifts rather than frustrations. They offer us time to read a book, lend a hand, or invest in our children and grandchildren.
So, if you find yourself waiting for something-a package, a breakthrough, or simply the next phase of life-here are a few things you can do in the meantime:
- Take care of yourself – Go for a walk, swim, or workout.
- Write a letter – A heartfelt note of encouragement can brighten someone’s day.
- Read something new – Try a genre you’ve never explored before.
- Learn to bake – Share your creations with neighbors and spread joy.
- Visit someone who’s been on your heart – A simple visit can mean the world to someone in need.
Timeless Wisdom
Here are a few thoughts to reflect on:
- “How did it get so late so soon?” – Seuss
- “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” – Mother Teresa
- “A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.” –
Charles Darwin
- “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” – James 4:14 ESV
The Challenge for Today
Stop watching the clock. Instead, embrace the moments unfolding before you. Who can you make smile today? How can you bring joy to someone’s life? What small action can you take to make this moment more meaningful?
I guarantee you-the things you are waiting for will come in due time. But what you choose to do in the in-between is entirely up to you.