"The bad news is time flies.
The good news is you’re the pilot.”
—Michael Altshuler
You've probably heard the expression: The days are long but the years are short.
When the reality of that shook my core suddenly one day, understanding filled, not just my mind, but my whole being. Words fail to describe the
depth of loss and profound sadness I felt, especially as a mother. I wished I had been more awake, aware, mindful, and wise for my daughters from their birth to that "wake up day" I had when they were teenagers.
The pain of that led me to write The Twelve Gifts of
Birth, however, as you may know.
You may also know about my brother's response when he similarly realized that he had lived many days on "autopilot." I have shared how, when he suddenly ached for thousands of days he had taken for granted, he began to take one photo every day of an ordinary moment that he appreciated. Some were as simple as an egg he was frying for breakfast. Over time, becoming more mindful and appreciating many moments each
day became natural for him. I am sharing his practice in case his "photo of the day" idea appeals to you.
However we pilot our way through the time of our lives, let's find ways to be awake and appreciative of each day. They are more precious than we realize.
With love and reverence,
Charlene
THE NINTH GIFT IS REVERENCE.
May you appreciate the wonder that you are
and the miracle of all creation.
- from The Twelve Gifts of Birth
