The demands and stress of life often keep us distracted from the joy of each season. And so we’re regularly reminded to enjoy the moment because time flies. While this is true, it’s also important to remember that enjoying a moment is not the same as holding on to it. Time does not stop and this naturally brings grief when good seasons come to an end.
For instance, parenthood comes with many challenging seasons. And often we’re just trying to make it through the day. But we only get this season once and we don’t want to miss meaningful moments distracted by things that don’t matter in the long run. Slowing down to make memories and drink deeply of each season saves us from much regret later.
All the same, while we can slow down and pay better attention to what matters, we cannot make time stop. Regardless of how many memories we make, our kids will still eventually grow up and leave the nest. To be sure, these are bittersweet moments, but part of us will always feel like it’s too soon.
And part of this tension is because God has planted eternity in our hearts while we’re still bound by the limitations of time. We want to experience the eternal present of every good season, but the march of time keeps us from holding on.
And so while there’s wisdom in slowing down and enjoying the moment, we should not assume this will prevent us from experiencing the heartache and grief when we still have to say goodbye.
And this is not just for parenting. In marriage and friendship, and with all our loved ones, time together in this life never seems like enough. We must learn to enjoy the moment and allow ourselves to grieve when it passes, though grieving in hope for the restoration of all good things.
In the end, pay attention and drink deeply of the moments that matter. And when they pass all too soon, let your grief remind you of the eternal joy you were created for.
Photo by Alfonso Scarpa on Unsplash
