“Don’t wish away time,” Grandmother used to say, so I’ve tried my very best not to.
I didn’t wish away the newlywed stage, but let conversation with Todd wander, gave laughter time to bubble up, and studied my new husband’s face until I had it memorized.
I didn’t wish away the baby stage, but rocked and sang, cooed and cuddled, and worked hard for those great big belly laughs.
I didn’t wish away childhood, but indulged our children’s silliness, asked open-ended questions, and gave them time to explore and express their imaginations.
I didn’t wish away the teen years, but gave them a chance to process, encouraged the development of their skill sets, and waited for their unique personalities to fully bloom.
I’m so thankful for Grandmother’s wisdom.
Life isn’t all roses and sunshine, though, and Todd and I have shouldered our share of strife.
Family stress. Financial strain. Career challenges. Poor health. These seasons, I did wish away—with all my heart and way too much of my mind.
Grandmother also used to say, “This too shall pass,” and, thankfully, it did.
Trouble is, by the time family stress was over, Todd and I weren’t alone anymore. By the time we experienced some financial relief, that sweet baby smell had faded. By the time certain career challenges had been hurdled, games of make-believe were just a memory, and when the shadow of illness lifted, our teens had already grown and flown.
Truth? If I could do it all over again, I would, even if it meant more suffering. This time, though, I’d fret less and trust God more so I could fully enjoy the moments I meant to treasure.
We don’t get do-over’s, friends, and tomorrow isn’t promised. Be wise.
This moment? It too shall pass.