Time is a Thief

Every so often, I’m unsure of what to write in this column. When ideas aren’t striking, I tend to look for inspiration in the columns of my predecessor, Janine Pumilia.

If you’re a longtime reader of “Smart Living,” you know Janine’s talent is extraordinary. How is it that she can make you think, laugh and weep with only 300 words of space??

At this time four years ago, Janine wrote a well-researched column about the spring equinox. Three years ago, she penned a moving column about keeping hope alive during the pandemic.

Two years ago, she wrote a column about parenting that I still reflect on when I can’t sleep at night. Here’s an excerpt:

I recall nodding when the well-wishers told me to “savor every minute because they grow so fast.” Now I wonder, “Did I do enough savoring?” Along with savoring, there was a lot of making sure everyone was clean, fed, rested, vaccinated, socialized, financially supported, caught up on homework and driven to wherever they needed to be next. Now, I’m one of the well-wishers.

The most natural thing in the world –generations replacing one another – is still the most miraculous.

As I write this, my 18-month-old is transferring his blocks one at a time from the floor to the coffee table. He’ll look at me when he’s finished for some sort of praise, and then he’ll sweep all his blocks back onto the floor and start again. He’s so easily entertained these days.

People say the toddler years can be tough, especially the tantrums, which I’m finding to be VERY ACCURATE. But I do try to heed the advice of all those who parented before me and savor this time. It might be cliche, but it’s true – our kids grow up so fast! Time is a thief.

Thank you to Janine for the wise reminder. You can still read her work in our Inspiration column.

Have a great week! ❚

Lindsey Lukas Senior Editor