As I write this, Fall is settling in nicely, winds no longer balmy, taken on a touch of the chill, they have, the days noticeably shorter, even the warmth of a seventy-degree day has a reminder on it that harder times are a’comin’.
Living on a farm, the change of the seasons necessitates a priority list of sorts. Let me give you an example. I have some cushions in the travel trailer that need to be replaced. I have a table which needs to be built, and various hinges which need either tightening or replacement.
None of those chores are crucial and can, in fact, wait. On the other hand, the windows of said travel trailer need to be caulked before the rain starts. That simply cannot wait. Also, Bev still needs a bit more wood cut for her woodstove. Again, that cannot be put off. My car is due for servicing and, if I want it to last me a long time, that trip to the mechanic should not be delayed for too long.
As fall shifts into winter, a similar chore of prioritization will take place, and winter into spring, once again, a new list of things which cannot wait will be transcribed.
And, really, the same applies to life.
Being a good friend cannot wait, no matter how busy I may think I am.
Telling loved ones how important they are to me absolutely should not be delayed.
Helping others when I am able . . . ditto!
Listening to someone who needs an understanding ear . . . ditto!
Continuing to cross off the bucket list items which wait patiently for my action . . . good golly, Molly, if not now, when?
Trying to be a voice of reason in an unreasonable world? What say you?
Being kind and compassionate and empathetic . . . no list necessary, goes without saying, right?
Listen, from one who knows, no bullshit now . . . there is an urgency attached to getting older. There is a very real sense that we have played Hide and Seek with the henchman for longer than we had a right to expect. He has a good grip on that scythe of his and our names are on his short list. So it really is time to tackle that “Cannot wait list” before our number is drawn. I have an entire family tree with names on it, and I’m talking every single name on it, of people who did not heed the call to take care of business before the business of life took care of them, leaving them, during those last few breaths, whispering shoulda, coulda, woulda.
I don’t know what’s on your “cannot wait list,” but I suspect you have one and I suspect it is somewhat ignored.
Take it out of your mind’s drawer, unfold it, dust it off, and get started.
Me? I have windows to caulk and loved ones to pay attention to.
Ann, my friend, thank you! I do try to make eye contact with strangers, cast them a greeting when contact is made; sometimes it feels awkward, but I’ve been doing it long enough now so most times it comes naturally. I just think it’s important, you know?
First freeze was last night; first major windstorm comes tonight. We will spend tomorrow cleaning up after Mothe Nature rudely litters the landscape. 🙂 And that will continue until April when we can once again rejoice.
Best wishes, dear friend.
bill
The older I get, Andrea, the more reflective I become. I suppose that is only natural. I do try not to chastise myself for not accomplishing things I dreamed of, and be more forgiving of myself.
I do feel the weight of time and think more about what I should be doing to make life more meaningful, rather than just what I think I ‘should’ be doing.
A timely reminder, Bill! Well done you.
I often think that and I am especially aware of the people I need to talk to and tell all sorts of things. It is happening but not often enough, even to those I do not know. I am aware of others around me not looking happy or struggling with walking or similar – I try to help, even if help is not wanted. I feel I should – and I feel better when I do; not smug, just better as it makes me smile.
It’s getting very chilly here but the storm has gone and the sun is out today so I’ve been out in it and rejoiced!
All the best to you and yours, Bill!
Ann