You have probably heard something similar to, “Live each day
to the fullest, because you never know what tomorrow may bring.” Like all sage
offerings, there is an element of truth involved here.
For a lot of us, we take the days of our lives for granted.
The years go swirling past in a rush of things to do, places to see, and dreams
to fulfil. We work diligently, raise our families, and try to measure up to our
own – or someone else’s – definition of success. For some of us, we put our
heads down, shoulder to the wheel (so to speak) and forget to look up.
Not “looking up” is unfortunate. We need to take the time to
savour the experiences of each day, good or not so good, because these
experiences inform who and what we are. If we don’t look up, we miss the simple
joy of a quiet summer evening. We miss that look of wonder on a child’s face,
the first time they discover rainbows in a puddle.
In short, we miss the opportunity to be grateful. Why are the drivers for appreciating life and
having gratitude missing from many people's lives? We should not have to experience ‘misery’ to
boost our insights into the value of life.
Do yourself a favour this weekend. Begin a new habit. Before
the end of each day, stop and soak in the experiences of the day. Let the smile
come to your face as you remember the happy and the funny. Plan out what you
will do “the next time” for those moments that didn’t come out so well. And be
grateful for the time you’ve had to make a difference in the lives of others.
Celebrate today, and face tomorrow with the expectation that
something great will happen!
