I have several solar powered lamps positioned in strategic locations around my back yard. They are tasteful, providing accent lighting around the swimming pool and patio palms at night; and economical, purchased at the local discount store. It’s a rather straight-forward operation. The sun’s light recharges the batteries during the day, which in turn, power the lamps after darkness triggers each lamp at dusk.
One lamp in particular illuminates before all the others – while there is still enough daylight to enjoy the backyard after dinner. It serves as both a reminder and a warning that evening is settling in, and another day will soon be complete.
Sometimes I welcome this lamp . . . it indicates it’s time to settle in, relax on the back porch, enjoy a refreshing beverage, and reflect upon the victories and accomplishments of the day. At other times, I look upon this lamp with distain . . . it reminds me of the impending end of a day, a day of which I’m not quite ready to let go. On these days, my mind runs to all that I did not accomplish, or of celebrations and milestones I’m still savoring.
This lamp seems to call me to the words of Jesus in John 9:4 where He said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work.” Regardless of the successes or short-comings of each day, this lamp reminds me that the succession of days which turn into weeks, then months, then years consolidate into a life time that’s way too short. This lamp reminds me to approach each day with a level of urgency to make the most out of it.
When I get frustrated, having heeded this lamp’s warning that the day is about to conclude, and I’ve not accomplished all that I intended in it, I am also reminded that the gift of another day will be given tomorrow. What’s left is to learn from today’s challenges, then make adjustments when the new day dawns.
Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
If you are often frustrated by the time and energy limitations each day brings, maybe it’s time to consider having a trained professional help you with time and energy management. Click below to contact one of the highly trained counselors and coaches at Daniels and Associates, LLC.
© 2017 by Roger Daniels