Hold Onto Every Moment

Do you ever take a moment to stop and think about life?  The life that you live, the moments that surround you, or even the life that others live?  Is there ever a time when you really notice nature, or the people that you come into contact with on a daily basis.

Earlier today, I ran to get a cup of coffee at McDonald's.  I didn't have a lot of time, so I decided to go through the drive-thru, and as always, I was pleasantly surprised by the workers that greeted me at each window.  Both women carried smiles, and were ready to serve me to the best of their ability.  Their level of care made me happier, and if I had been looking at my phone or thinking about all I had to do today, I would have missed out on a great blessing. 

This is what I am talking about--do you ever take the time to notice the little things in life?  Because these little things measure up to greater things in one's life.  A stranger's kindness, autumn colored leaves falling from a tree, a dog's bark in the distance, and a beautiful sunset--all of these moments are important.  It is imperative that we never take any of these moments for granted--small as they might seem. 

I don't want to be too solemn here, but with my own life experiences, I know how easily these moments can be taken away and how precious it is to be a part of normal everyday opportunities.  And that is exactly what they are--privileged opportunities.    

Not everyone will get the chance to hear a robin sing or take their dog for a walk.  Not everyone will get to buy a prom dress or walk down the aisle in a beautiful wedding gown.  Not everyone will have the honor of graduating from college in order to pursue an exciting career.  These possibilities seem quite normal, and you might think that everyone experiences these events.  But they don't.

Never take anything for granted and hold onto every moment. 

I say all of this because of various events I have witnessed recently.  Events that have caused me to stop and ponder what is really important in life.  It is not how much money you have or how successful you might be--it is the little things in life that people miss the most.  These are the memories that people want to relive.  In all honesty, no one really cares about the kind of car they drove when they were young.  They care about the best friend they once knew and for whatever reason lost touch with.  They care about different individuals who touched their life, and who helped shape who they are as adults.  In the end, it's all about people. 

So please take some time to notice the little things today.  Tell someone you love them.  And remember to grab hold of each moment in your life--don't let unimportant matters hold your attention anymore.  Focus on family, friends, and the simple pleasures that life brings us each day.