Time flies! Years go by and our children grow up before we can even blink; our parents and loved ones get older and eventually we lose them. What we forget is that one day, we too will follow them and leave this earth.

So, why? Why waste our precious time instead of using it productively? Why be spiteful and unkind to those around us when nothing really matters in the bigger scheme of things? Why surround ourselves with people who drain our energy and pull us in the wrong direction?

We all know we are here on a temporary basis with no escape from death. The very second we are born, we start our journey towards death. And yet, during our brief stay on earth we act as if we are going to be around for ever. We push and strive for more money and more power. We make money to buy more “stuff.” We pursue more pleasures hoping we will be happier. We want to be in control and are disappointed when everything does not go according to our plan.

But, no amount of “stuff” we buy, or how much money or fame or power we have will make us truly happy. All of that bring temporary satisfaction.

So, why get greedy and pompous? Why be despiteful and angry and upset instead of appreciative of what we have? Why waste precious time running after power and fame to accumulate more and more wealth, when we only need so much to live a peaceful life?

No matter how much material stuff we accumulate in this lifetime, how much money we save in our bank account, or the position we hold, none of this will matter because we will leave all of that behind when it is our time to go. So, being angry and upset about little things that happen, and focusing on greed and power will only make us miserable. 

Happiness starts within by reflecting on who we are as human beings and how we can help others as we walk the path of life. Inner awareness and acceptance of self are key. That’s when true happiness starts. And, when we are happy and at peace with who we are, our circumstances change, our energy lightens up, and in return we start affecting those we interact with as well.

So, it’s important to focus on productive and meaningful goals that help us, as well as those around us.

Let’s…

• be kind, understanding, and supportive of each other
• educate ourselves through books
• enjoy nature as we pay attention to the beauty around us
• grow our souls spiritually through prayer and meditation
• appreciate what we have instead of focusing on what we don’t have

Use your time productively, don’t waste it, because…every… minute… counts!