In early 2024, I experienced the sudden and unexpected death of an immediate family member. What made the loss even more painful was that we had been estranged for the past 20 years—for reasons I still do not fully understand. I had reached out multiple times over the years, hoping to reconnect, but those attempts were never met in return. And now, with that door permanently closed, I am left wondering: Was there more I could have done? What did this experience teach me?

What it reminded me—perhaps more powerfully than ever—is just how fragile, temporary, and unpredictable life truly is. We do not choose the day we are born, and we have little say in when our time will end. But we do have influence over what we do with the time in between those dates.

That space between birth and death—our one life—is the most valuable gift we will ever have. How we spend it shapes not only our daily experiences but the legacy we leave behind. There is no single right way to live, but here are some truths I have come to believe about using our time well:

1. Love Deeply

Build strong, meaningful relationships. Love your family, your friends, and yourself.
Simple acts of kindness and compassion often outlive us.

2. Pursue Purpose

Discover what brings you meaning—beyond mere survival or success.
Whether it is raising children, creating, serving, mentoring, your spiritual journey or building—purpose grounds us and guides us.

3. Keep Growing

Stay curious. Keep learning—about others, the world, and yourself.
Life’s challenges are not detours; they are the road to wisdom and strength.

4. Serve Others

Lift someone up. Offer your time, your presence, your care.
Fulfillment often comes when we shift the focus off ourselves.

5. Be Present

Do not let life slip by while chasing what is next.
Treasure the small things: laughter, a quiet walk, a shared meal, a heartfelt conversation.

6. Create a Legacy

Not one that is carved in stone, but one felt in the hearts of those you have touched.
Live so that your absence is felt in the best way.

7. Do not Wait

Do not wait to repair an important broken relationship.
Do not wait to say, “Thank you,” “I miss you,” “I am sorry,” “I appreciate you,” or “I love you.” It may be your last chance.

Ultimately, life is not just about getting through the days, it is about living them fully. Being a light in someone’s darkness.
Making a difference, even if only for a few. Leaving your corner of the world just a little better than you found it.

What you do with your time is yours to decide. But decide with intention. Because your time is limited—and that is what makes it so profoundly precious.

Take care of yourself—and each other!

Time

Love