So many times, we spend much of life looking back and wallowing in or relishing our past (depending on if your view of those days is positive or negative) or moving ahead, focused on what's next, like the next job, finding a spouse, becoming a mom, or going to college. As a senior in high school, that's now Rachel … so excited about her future and playing basketball at Central Michigan University. That's good, but my life mantra keeps popping up, and it's a good message for her, for me, and for all of us, I think. ENJOY THE MOMENT!
It's good to remember the past so that we can learn from our mistakes and be thankful for what God has done for us. And looking forward is also great because that's how dreams are fulfilled by being excited about what's yet to be discovered and explored before us.
But in the midst of looking back or being too future focused, we cannot forget to embrace every developing season of life and live and enjoy the moment we are in NOW to the fullest.
That's what I tell Rachel. Celebrate every day of your senior year. Enjoy the relative lack of responsibility, the ability to make close friendships, the memories of sports and activities. You'll never get those days back.
Perhaps there's wisdom for each of us in this, no matter what stage of life we're in. The days are more joyous when I am not wishing them away.
