In the blink of an eye
I’m sitting here at a Starbucks in Kansas City, MO. An elderly gentleman sits a few tables down from me. He slowly sips his coffee and carefully, yet deliberately, raises his fork to his lips. The hand is shaky, but firm. Little by little, the blueberry scone is transferred from the white plate to his mouth. The man cherishes each bite. He looks old. He looks weak. Each bite is a journey in and of itself. The light has faded from his eyes and he looks weary.
Yet, he made the effort to drive to Starbucks and enjoy a night out. I feel a sadness come over me. I wonder what his story is. Does he have hope? His life according to most is over. He doesn’t have much left to give. Even this trip to Starbucks, must have been difficult and challenging. Yet, he’s here. He’s not at home, he’s not in bed. Is he alone? Does he still have a family? My compassion overwhelms me. I want to do something…I want to encourage him. I want to say something kind. But, what can I say? I don’t know anything about him? I don’t know what pain may consume him. I don’t know what he’s been through. What can I give? A smile?
…Now he’s gone. I lost my opportunity. I will most likely never see him again. He may never see the light of another day. This may have been his last for all I know.
In the blink of an eye, everything we come to know and love will be gone. So, what do we put our hope in? What do we worship and love? What are we thankful for? How do we spend our time? I challenge you, I urge you…no I command you to take a few minutes and ponder these questions in light of your own life.
Soon you will be like this old man. You may be able to count your remaining days on one hand. Will those final hours be lived out in joy and satisfaction knowing you successfully fulfilled you’re purpose here on earth? Or, perhaps…will they be hours filled with agony and regret? Knowing that you wasted the energy you had on selfish ambitions? Knowing that each opportunity that presented itself to you to love someone, to give…you passed by selfishly saying “no”.
Are you thankful for all you have? Do you cherish each and every breath you take? Don’t be a fool. Don’t take your life for granted. Open your eyes. Live each and every moment with thankfulness.
