Time is of the Essence

It’s easy to forget the significance of the moments shared with those who matter most. The greatest gift we can give or receive is our time. It’s the one resource we can never get back, because once a moment has passed, it’s gone forever. King Solomon captured this truth when he wrote, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens,” emphasizing the value of time. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through our phones, being consumed by work, or worrying about the next task, we should invest our time with those we love.

The holiday season is an invitation to slow down and appreciate life’s simple joys: kindness, shared laughter, and the comfort of togetherness. These moments remind us to step away from the day's noise and be fully present with those whose lives we touch—and who touch ours.

Jim Croce’s song “Time in a Bottle” captures the fleeting nature of time and the desire to hold on to precious moments:

If I could save time in a bottle,

The first thing that I’d like to do,

Is to save every day ‘til eternity passes away,

Just to spend them with you.

If I could make days last forever,

If words could make wishes come true,

I’d save every day like a treasure,

And then again I would spend them with you.

But there never seems to be enough time

To do the things you want to do once you find them.

Written when Croce learned his wife was pregnant with their son, the lyrics reflect the importance of treasuring time with loved ones. Although we can’t save time in a bottle, we can create memories with lasting impact.

Ask yourself, “What moments today will I want to remember forever?” Take pictures, share stories, keep traditions alive, and create new ones. Cherish the time with those you love. Save your best moments. In the end, those moments are what truly matter.

In the coming days and weeks, challenge yourself to pause and give the gift of time. Set aside distractions. Listen more than you speak. Engage in meaningful conversations, even if they seem inconsequential. And remember: It’s not about a perfect meal on the table but the moments shared around it.

Wishing you a joyful and meaningful holiday season!

Join my email list and invite your friends to receive these weekly blogs by signing up at www.bobbykocol.com/blog.