I have an acquaintance whose husband was killed in an auto accident this past week. I found out about it because it was on the front page of the paper. While that may seem unusual, it is not if you play an important role in a major hotel chain. We were very sad for the grief and loss that this friend is going through.
As my wife and I pondered that loss throughout the day, we had a brief conversation about it later that evening and we had both been mulling over similar thoughts. This man had an impact in the community. His neighbors thought highly of him and his wife and children will never be the same. The reminder for us, as often happens in situations like this, was that they had plans. They had plans to attend a wedding that evening. They had other trip plans and dreams yet to fulfill. But in the blink of an eye – his time on this earth was completed.
We have no guarantees of time. My wife and I have travels scheduled later this year. We look forward to spending Christmas with family. But as Mark, a counselor friend of mine always says, we will make that trip or enjoy that event, “Lord willing.” God holds my clock, my calendar, and my future.
So, this drives me back to the thoughts on that day. With the breath and life I am given today – I want to be present. That may mean that I need to turn off the Xbox or Facebook; put my phone down; or set the newspaper to the side. Today, as I have opportunity to be with my wife or kids – I want to be present – fully present. I encourage you today to be sure to be present with those whom you love as well.