Even though it’s hard to own up to my age sometimes, I have lived long enough to see some things come and some things go. I’m at the tail end of the Baby Boomer generation. I grew up with some civilities and genialities that were expected. A portion of them were done out of tradition or obligation, but they still made the world a nicer place.
A lot of those took time – like stopping to talk or a hand-written note. In today’s high tech, fast-paced world many of the time related customs have fallen by the wayside. The jury is still out on whether that’s good or bad. For example, we’re working on Bretney’s wedding invitations and nowadays you give the option of RSVP-ing by email, text, or visiting their wedding website. A mail-in response, even pre-stamped and addressed, is no longer the norm. The younger generation just doesn’t seem to get the meaning and power behind a thank you card or other hand-written note. I do. I’m not any good at keeping up with them but I understand. (And I’m old enough to still expect them too!)
So, what might this look like? First off, stop and write that note. And mail it!! If nothing else, make a phone call. Anything that says you took the time to care. Be the neighbor you hope, want, and expect the folks living next to you to be. And the guy with the cardboard sign on the corner? Now I’m not saying don’t give him some money but when was the last time you stopped to talk to him, hear his story, be a friend?
Most importantly of all, make sure you stop and take time with Jesus. The Psalmist reminds us to “give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1 NIV.) Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, deserves our time and attention. After all, that’s what we expect out of Him, right? Spending time with Jesus can change your outlook, even your whole day! It’s time well spent – no matter how old you are!
