Time

“A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.”

As the spring solstice passes by, I can’t think of a better time to jot down a few thoughts that have been on my mind. The changing of the skies/tides is a reminder that all things in life are fluid with change, even our desire for expression of love.

The topic of authenticity has been on my mind, as it’s the topic behind the book I’m piecing together. Somebody recently asked me how I best see authenticity displayed in life.

“Listening.” I replied.

You can read a book, or tell somebody you’re reading a book. You can’t do both at the same time. I’m finding that time and love are very similar.

When you listen to others – and I mean, really listen – it gives you a deeper level of understanding. Instead of only hearing the words, you begin to see traces of the heart you’re listening to. Compassion and understanding will unfold when you mute the critical thoughts in your own mind; waiting for their turn to speak, judge, or criticize. Listen, please.

My time in the mornings with Sister J have become a source of joy and inspiration. While she has the appearance of a homeless woman, she has the soul of a King. Our conversations have lifted my spirit to new levels.

Every morning, I walk to the window and check to see if Sister J is sitting by the water. For most of America, there’s a strong guarantee our loved ones will ‘be there’ in the morning. Thus, it becomes easy to take for granted the ones we love most.

For the homeless, like Sister J, life is not so simple. When I walk to the window in the morning, there is a growing realization that I may not see her by the water. Ever. As I write this, it’s 8:07am and she still has yet to show. She’s usually never this late.

Sister J has given me several gifts. Her presence, conversation, love, and time. These gifts are more valuable than diamonds, cars, clothes, and palaces. Above the possibility of hot summer flings, pounding music, or obese bank accounts, I look forward to my mornings by the lake with her. We give each other what we have — time.

Time. Time is the most valuable gift you can give. Money can’t buy it. Fear can’t contain it. And all of the technology in the universe (multiverse is another story…) can’t replicate it.

T-I-M-E- THIS. IS. MY. EVERYTHING.