“There is one simple thing wrong with you – you think you have plenty of time.” —  Carlos Castaneda, author

Getting older has been on my mind a lot lately. I’ve not done anything unusual in the way of self-reflection or anything, but I’ve noticed some changes in myself. People, circumstances, and difficult discussions don’t have nearly the ability to set me off the way they used to. At different times, I’ve wondered if it’s fatigue, indifference, competing priorities, or a combination of all of the above. I think I’ve finally realized that it’s age. With age, you just know better. You know which battles are worth the energy.  And frankly, the number of worthy battles is dwindling for me as I age.

I’ve also caught myself saying, “life is too short,” a number of times lately. Which is true. Someone involved in a car crash had a to-do list for the day or plans for their future that were either altered or destroyed in a split second. How many people got up today, got dressed, and moved forward with their day, having no idea what was ahead of them? So yes, life is breathtakingly short. But when God gifts you with health and longevity, life can seem pretty long, too. So balance is needed.

For example:

Life is too long to take your body for granted and not provide it with the nourishment and exercise it needs. But life is too short to not eat that cupcake.

Life is too long not to exercise your right to vote. In fact, the future depends so much on the quality of our leaders, it’s irresponsible and selfish not to. But life is too short to get into nasty political discussions and name-calling with people with opposing views.

Life is too long to make impulsive or knee-jerk career decisions when your family and your future success depends on responsible planning. But life is too short to have a job that depletes you of your joy.

Life is too long (and would be next to impossible) not to have beloved, loyal, committed, funny, and supportive friendships. But life is too short to tolerate anyone who takes more than they contribute.

Our time is uncertain. Every minute, every experience is a precious gift to savor and an opportunity for gratitude — both in the short and long-term.

*These photos I’ve taken lately share a lovely color palette. Such a happy, lucky accident.