All is vanity, a chasing after the wind….

We spend so much time pursuing external markers of success—such as educational qualifications, wealth, what to wear and worrying about how others perceive us—that we often forget to focus on the important things in life like relationships, personal growth and overall well-being. While those external markers are important, a healthy balance is essential for a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Sometimes, it takes a major blow to bring us back into perspective, to realize that things are not always as they seem, and to understand that we don’t have as much time as we think we do. A few months back, after my family suffered a tragic loss which shook us to the core, the words of the Preacher in the Book of Ecclesiastes, “All is vanity, a chasing after the wind,” reverberated in my mind, reminding me that in the midst of such pain, the pursuit of external factors felt hollow, forcing me to reevaluate what truly holds value in life—love, connection, and the memories we create with those we cherish because we never know how much time we have left together.

It’s so easy to take things for granted and bask in the familiarity of it all that we forget to put more effort into showing loved ones how much they mean to us. We just assume they know how we feel but more often than not, actions speak louder than words and we should never tire of doing that. Tomorrow is never promised, today is all we have, yesterday’s acts might not suffice.

I once came across a post on Instagram about a ticking clock we cannot see. We never know how much time we have left to do the things we love, so we might as well make the most of the present moment but in doing so, we must not lose sight of those who matter most to us.

Lastly, it’s important to pause and reflect on what holds the most value in our lives. Although external pursuits can be enticing, they pale in comparison to the significance of our relationships and the memories we create with our loved ones. We have to be intentional about embracing the present, showing appreciation and love to those around us, and cherishing every moment we have together. In doing this, we cultivate a life rich with meaning and connection, which we can look back at and be amazed by a woven tapestry of love, unwavering support, and unforgettable moments. Life is fleeting, and the best legacy we can leave is one of genuine relationships and heartfelt memories. Let’s seize the opportunity and make each day truly meaningful!