Today’s posting sounds suspiciously similar to yesterday‘s entry. I had another day eaten up by a seven hour event–this one was a sporting competition in which two of my three children were competing. I was up at 5:30am, cooking breakfast, and then packing kids in the car for a two hour drive. After seven hours in a gym, we were off to dinner, then to a hotel. Tomorrow–we are off to the crag for a day of climbing.

Much of what I did today involved helping other kids in the competition. I enjoy volunteering at these events–if for no other reason then it makes the time pass more quickly. But much like sitting in a meeting for seven hours–it does get to be draining. And I think the reason is probably the same–because what’s really draining out of me is time itself.

So tonight, sitting in the hotel room, I am recouping. As in, getting back what I lost. Not that I regret giving my time–but for the next few hours, my goal is to give my time to a much smaller circle of kids, namely my own. It’s important for me to remember that my time really is my most endangered resource and to treat it with care and respect.

Right now, as I write this, they are watching a movie and playing a game on a tablet. In a little bit, we will make up some hot chocolate down in the lobby, maybe play some cards, and just relax.

I’m not sure if my kids will remember this evening, but it is my goal to mark it as special, and memorable. It’s hard to keep in mind that this moment–no matter what is happening–will pass, and never return.

What would it mean to try to live these moments, and appreciate these moments, in their fleeting beauty?