A Gentle Reminder

Life moves fast. Between work, screens, errands, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to forget one simple truth: our time here is limited.

Divorce attorney and hospice volunteer James Sexton has spent time with people at the end of their lives. After those conversations, he noticed a powerful pattern. The dying rarely talk about their cars, bank accounts, or achievements. They talk about the people they loved—the hugs, the laughter, the quiet conversations, and even the hard moments shared with family and friends. Everything else fades away.

Society constantly distracts us from this reality. Ads, social media, and busy schedules push us to chase more stuff, more status, more “success.” But if we truly remembered that our days are numbered, we might slow down and focus on what really lasts: connection.

There is a finite number of times you will kiss your spouse, hug your child, or say “I love you” to someone who matters. You don’t know the exact number. That finiteness is what makes each moment so precious.

This truth is not meant to produce fear. It is meant to produce freedom—and, for those who follow Christ, a deeper attentiveness to the people God has placed in our lives. Jesus summed up the whole law in two commands: love God and love your neighbor. The limited number of days we are given makes those loves urgent and concrete.

Simple Ways to Live This Truth Today

• Be present. Put the phone down during dinner or bedtime stories. Look into their eyes. Really listen.
• Say the words. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to tell someone you appreciate them. Say it now.
• Choose connection over stuff. A walk together or a heartfelt conversation often means more than another purchase.
• Forgive and cherish. Life is too short for holding grudges. Make room for love instead.

When we remember that time is a gift, we stop wasting it on things that do not matter. We begin investing in the relationships that carry eternal weight.

Today is a good day to begin. Hug a little longer. Call that friend. Tell your family how much they mean to you. These small choices add up to a life marked by warmth, meaning, and fewer regrets—one that reflects the love of Christ.

What’s one small thing you can do today to cherish the people around you?
Your future self, and the people you love, will thank you.

Inspired by reflections from James Sexton (in conversation with Tom Bilyeu) and the original post here