The Most Precious Gift: Time

 

There are moments in life that make us pause—moments that force us to reflect on what truly matters. One such moment happened during our last class with Dr. Celia Kiram, our professor in Innovation Management. She shared a thought that struck deep, a question she asked herself while sitting in her car: What is the most important thing in my life right now?

Her answer was simple yet profound—time.

At her age, she has countless dreams still left to fulfill, places to visit, and lessons to teach. But time is no longer as abundant as it once was. Responsibilities take priority, and the hours slip away faster than they used to.

"Time, once it passes, can never be taken back," she said. And those words lingered in the air, heavy with truth.

I felt a lump in my throat as I listened. How many hours have I wasted on meaningless things? How many moments have I let slip through my fingers, thinking I had all the time in the world? We live as if we are promised tomorrow, yet life is fragile. Some people don’t even make it to old age—some leave far too soon.

Most of us are given around 70 years to exist on this planet. But here’s the real question: Did you truly live?

Did you fill your days with meaning? Did you chase the dreams that set your soul on fire? Did you love deeply, laugh freely, and create memories that will last beyond your lifetime?

Time is fleeting, and we can never reclaim the hours that have already passed. But we can make the most of what is left. Every sunrise is a second chance, every heartbeat a reminder that we are still here, still able to choose how we spend our precious minutes.

So ask yourself—For whom are you living this life?