“First, I was dying to finish high school and start college.
And then I was dying to finish college and start working.
And then I was dying to marry and have children.
And then I was dying for my children to grow up and get out the house.
And then I was dying to retire.
And now, I am dying… and suddenly I realize I forgot to live.”
Thanks to the Rev. Dr. Renita Weems for posting this on her blog a few weeks ago. Does it remind you of anyone you know? You, perhaps? It certainly reminds me of myself: “when I am done with this project... this liturgical season... this developmental stage... this phase of life...” And, it all just whizzes by and pretty soon, I have forgotten to live.
It is for these reasons that the psalmist gave us the gift of these words:
Lord, teach us to number our days, so that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. {Psalm 90:12}
As the seasons change, may we all be reminded of the blessing of living and thanking God for the present moment. It really is all that we know that we have. |