The Auspicious of Time

We have all heard the adages “Time waits for no one” and “the patient dog eats the fattest bone,” each carrying its unique context.

When life doesn’t go as planned, we get weary, impatient, tired and our hope is deferred. Watching others achieve their aspirations can evoke a longing for our own dreams to materialise.

I have come to understand that each of us faces a phase known as the “wilderness season” in life. It is a tumultuous time when everything feels upside down, you can’t seem to figure out the direction your life is heading, the future seems bleak and once-reliable strategies cease to work. A place of chaos, confusion, anxiety and numerous trials, lasting months or even years.

In my wilderness season, grounding myself in the word of God helped me see things through a different lens. It uplifted me during moments of self-doubt and insecurity. It taught me to filter my thoughts, be less fearful about things beyond my control, embrace boldness and courage, and to walk by faith not by sight. Studying the book of Proverbs, I found wisdom that could have steered me away from certain mistakes had I encountered it earlier. I chuckle each time I come across a particular chapter. Major shoutout to you G for your love letters aka The Bible! It’s been a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

The wilderness season presents an opportunity to maximise time. It’s prepping season! Yes, things are crazy but it helps to hold on to the belief that one day you will step into the life you have envisioned. This phase encouraged me to adopt new habits, unlearn old ones that no longer served me, acquire new knowledge/skills and attempt things on my wish list.

I realised very late that I had somehow convinced myself that my best days were ahead thereby deferring my “enjoyment” and saving new outfits for some elusive future occasion. In my mind, I would feel a sense of fulfilment when “I get everything I want”.

The problem with that was, time was passing by regardless of the decisions and mindset I had. Like who said I cannot be joyful at this very moment? Clothes can be washed! Now, I find joy in every little thing- going to the gym twice a week, that’s a win for me! Sharing meals with family, adhering to new habits, ticking off tasks on my to-do list, or a good belly laugh with a friend; they all bring fulfilment. Simply being alive and breathing easy is such a blessing to me. This season has been about learning, growing, personal development, healthy living and taking bold steps. It’s taught me the importance of protecting my peace and joy, modulating responses to my environment and practicing gratitude.

Though you may not be where you envisioned, believe it or not, you are exactly where you should be. Let me explain. Without this phase, you would not have recognised the depth of your strength. Your experiences prepare you for the journey ahead, equipping you to assist others undergoing similar challenges. Who best to help them? You!

Life operates in seasons. Understanding your current season offers preparation, contentment and clarity which illuminates the path towards your goals and aspirations. Having a purpose helps in this journey.

Sometimes, as Christians, we forget that God operates beyond our sense of time. He existed before time; He is eternal and timeless. God doesn’t rush like we do. While we are bound by time and essentially living to die, we want everything to happen expeditiously. However, time isn’t merely a measure; it’s a canvas upon which we paint our experiences, learn resilience, and grow. So, embrace its rhythm, for within its passage lies the transformational essence of life.

Be patient. Keep going. Time has a way of healing. Relaaax, everything will work together for your good.

“Whether it’s the best of times or the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got.” Art Buchwald