
Listening to the radio this past week, I heard the spokesman conclude his interview with his guest, “thank you for your time.” My first reaction was that his words were a news person’s formulaic closure. And then a much deeper interpretation took over. What else do we have to offer each other than our time? And, building on that thought, what are the signature qualities of the time we offer?
I vividly recall an episode in New York City in my teen years. The setting may have been Times Square or Grand Central Station. I don’t remember. What I do recall is seeing a huge digital time display calibrated to tenths of a second which greatly amplified and dramatized the speed of life’s passing. Decades later to the yawns of our progeny’s generation, I join my senior cohort with the frequent lament, where did the time go?
That said, the invitation remains for each of us to shape our time ahead, whatever our age or circumstances. We need not be deterred, thinking that our gifts are only worthy if they are world-changing. For most of us the gifts of our time and attention may help a few others change their worlds. Acts of kindness, holding space, listening, offering open-ended questions and affirming are blessings of daily discourse we can offer those in our circles of care.
In his book from 1946, Yes to Life in Spite of Everything, Viktor Frankl reminds us that each of us can show up in the moment with an attitude that makes a difference.
What we “radiate” into the world, the “waves” that emanate from our being, that is what will remain of us when our being itself has long passed away. (p. 45)
Thanks for this, Duffy. My daughter-in-law texted me today to thank me for my flexibility in when to pick up my grandson this evening. I wrote back that I have the retired person’s gift of time to be flexible. When I do volunteer work, I am grateful for the gift of time I have to do the work. It gives my life purpose now. So the gift of time gives so much to me in return! Love, Susanne
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Susanne, I love your focus on the gift of time. Often, we are so busy with “stuff” that we lose sight of the preciousness of the time that we have. Time is a gift and purpose provides it direction. So grateful for this reminder. Love to you and Pete.
I love the Victor Frankl reference! My time spent just chatting with a good friend or my husband or one of my grandkids fills me with pure joy!!! ♥️ Susanne
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No doubt those whom you bless with your time and presence experience that joy in their own way. Thank you!
Wonderful piece on time. Viktor Frankle has been favorite of mine
Thank you
Heidi
Frankl’s is a remarkable example of the role that attitude plays in shaping our life experiences. I am blessed with the examples of Bob, you and many others in my life whose positive attitudes continually inspire me.
Your words resonate with me, Bob. “Holding space, listening, asking open-ended questions and affirming” is my work as a hospital chaplain. I often don’t know the results of this as patients come and go but, occasionally, someone will find me later and tell me how helpful this was to their healing experience. I’ve learned that being present—giving our time and attention—can be a profound experience for the recipient and for the giver.
Thanks for these thoughts, Winnie. No doubt your presence, time and attention have brought healing energy to many. Blessings to you and all whom you have blessed. Bob
Ahhh time….the only thing we control and the one thing we can’t get more of. It’s not how much you have, it’s what you do with what you have. Always great thought provoking topics! Thanks Bob!
Great reminder, Derek, and one we can all take to heart: “it’s what you do with what you have.” Thanks for this contribution to all of us.