I recently had a conversation with a dear friend of mine. We were reflecting on the four decades we have known one another. We talked about the things we would do better if we had a chance.
After we stopped talking, we smiled and looked at each other as if a light came on for both of us at the same time. We said, “We still have time. We are still here—it is not too late.”
As we wrote our lists, we laughed, cried, and shared a few of our thoughts. But I think for both of us, what we cherished the most was our time together and the opportunity to remind each other that nothing is ever too late if we still have breath in our bodies.
There is so much going on in life that can steal our attention and joy. Sometimes, we don’t stop long enough to give thought to the things that really matter in life and count our blessings. We talk about how much we love our family and friends—but does our calendar reflect that? Do we actually make time for them?
We also talk about how much we want to help others and give back—but do our checkbooks reflect that? We say we’re going to get things in order so that when it’s our time to go home to be with the Lord, we won’t leave things in shambles for our loved ones to figure out. But have we done that? We talk about preparing for emergencies and possible disasters, but have we really made time to do that?
The list can go on and on, and honestly, it can feel overwhelming. How do we even get started? The answer is simple—just start somewhere.
When I think about the things I would like to do before it’s too late, it goes beyond just what I shared above. I want to make sure I’ve documented pearls of wisdom for my grandchildren. I want to leave a trail they can follow to understand their heritage and family history. I want to laugh more and cherish the good times with those I love and care about.
I want to encourage those who cross my path that no matter what they may be going through, God will see them through. For those of us who are Christians, this is just a stop along the journey of forever, and only what we do for Christ will last. We must be mindful of others and how we can bless them during their journey.
What do you want—or need—to do before it’s too late? If you feel like the list is too big and you don’t know where to begin, break it down into small boxes. What’s one thing you can do each week toward accomplishing your list?
It could be as simple as a phone call to a loved one. Sit and chat for twenty minutes or so. You could send a card or letter—something they can reread when they’re feeling lonely. Everyone loves receiving positive mail when they open the mailbox.
Maybe you can plan a dinner at your home. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Just invite loved ones over for a lovely evening of simply being present. You can also start by organizing all your personal business files in one location. Then share that information with your next of kin or the person you trust to carry out your wishes.
The key is to stop pushing things off until another day and making excuses. Just do one thing today, and it will make you feel much better.
As the years continue to pass, it would be sad to look back with too many regrets about what we wish we would have done. It’s important to learn to live life to the fullest each day. Thomas Jefferson said, “Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today.”
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
