Melton Mowbray

Giving the Gift of Time

Just a few thoughts on how to make the gift of time this holiday season matter more:

1. The TIME to READ. I have begun one book, have even selected the next and can actually see myself wrapped in a cozy corner fully immersed in someone else's story — a time traveler to another century and location happily subsumed in the escape of a great story that reminds me that the world is not about me. The opportunity to learn about other cultures, history being made, all without leaving our living room — I am so in!!

2. The TIME to SLEEP. I am not sure how Arianna Huffington has become my sleep guru, but she has. Her admonition that we can sleep our way to "increased productivity and happiness" is deeply embedded in the research. So, while my kids are beyond the age of legislated nap times, we will encourage upper lids meeting lower lids whenever the spirit moves us. The opportunity to talk about the importance of sleep will also be added to the family conversation with our two college kids...talk about lives of busy.

3. The TIME to CONNECT. I am absolutely looking for some quality time with people in my life. Thinking about those who matter much to me and because of “BUSY” time and distance, I feel a bit disconnected. Taking the time to connect fills the soul — a call, a note, a coffee, dinner, lunch, even a text. While not looking to overload the schedule, the time spent letting those who matter to you know you are thinking of them is good for all of you.

4. The TIME to LAUGH and HAVE FUN. What are those things that bring you the most pleasure? You know what they are. Mine, of course, include reading, sleeping, connecting, and also laughing out loud. Perhaps some skiing and hiking, and taking the time to appreciate deeply just how blessed I am with the TIME we have on this earth.

This year, join in giving the gift of time to your loved ones and yourself. Take time to connect with family, grab a holiday lunch with your best friend, or steal away for a moment to be kind to yourself. I am going to try to double down on this. Funny, as I think about it, one of the types of things I am eagerly anticipating is a stack of notes to send to those who have been so thoughtful over these past months.