The Time is Now

Being diagnosed with cancer immediately changed my perception of time. Facing the possibility of death made me realize how short life can be and how quickly things can change. While spending hours in a recliner receiving chemotherapy I had a lot of time to think about my life thus far and how I wanted to live life in the future.  I now appreciate time in a way I never have before. In the past I rushed through life and assured myself when life slowed down I would have plenty of time to do all the things I wanted to do.  I was busy working and raising four children and there didn’t seem to be time for much of anything else. Aside from the daily tasks, I would also spend time caught in the mental game of regret, irritation and procrastination. Now how I spend my time and who I spend it with has become fiercely important to me.  It is easy to get lost in time regretting the past or envisioning the future. I have made peace with my past, make a conscience effort to be present in the moment and make the most of my days. Things that used to bother me no longer do and I have learned to let go.  I no longer spend hours, days, weeks, months or years reliving, rehashing or replying to negative interactions, thoughts or situations.  I now spend my time appreciating the small, simple things in life and packing as much as I can into the day.  I am spontaneous and do what I want, when I want, whenever I can.  I Find the things, people and activities that I enjoy and embrace them. I take time for myself, friends, family, laughter, exercise, rest and nutrition. I take time to listen, love and admire and most importantly appreciate the gift of time.